Characteristics of the Mystical Leader in the Thought of John of the Cross with a Comment on the Reasons for the Occurrence of Satanic Temptations on the Path of Belief

Abdari, Robabeh; Motamedi, Mansour; Ashraf Emami, Ali

doi:10.22052/se.2025.115271

Characteristics of the Mystical Leader in the Thought of John of the Cross with a Comment on the Reasons for the Occurrence of Satanic Temptations on the Path of Belief

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Robabeh Abdari ¹ ^¶

Mansour Motamedi ²

Ali Ashraf Emami ²

¹ PhD student in Comparative Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Theology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

² Associate Professor, Department of Comparative Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Theology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

10.22052/se.2025.115271

Abstract

John of the Cross (1542-1591) was the great reformer of the Carmelite Order and one of the greatest Christian mystics of the 16th century. His writings, in addition to being considered among the brilliant works of Spanish literature in terms of literature, were very influential in Christian mysticism due to their didactic aspect. He is a mystic who, in his works, as a mystical guide, has shown the path to unity to the seekers with unparalleled precision. A reflection on the works and writings of John proves that his concern in all four of his valuable works was based on three important parts: 1. Description of the stages and stages of the path; 2. Description of the states, tribulations, and afflictions of the soul; 3. Description of practical strategies for getting rid of suffering and achieving the soul's goal. Accordingly, in the present study, using a descriptive-analytical method, the characteristics of the leader in the thought of John of the Cross have been examined and in this regard, one of his important teachings regarding the cause of satanic desires on the path of life is explained. Finally, emphasizing the point that in John's view, the first and best mystical guide of the soul is God himself, John's teaching methods as a mystical guide are examined.

Keywords

John of the Cross

mystical leader

satanic desires

stages of conduct

afflictions of the soul