Zyzak, Wojciech (Papieski Wydział Teologiczny we Wrocławiu, 2008)
The author of the article deals with the meaning of the writings of Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite for mystical theology. This anonymous author, living at the end of the 5th century, was the first to introduce to western theology the term “mystical theology” In the article the sources of Areopagite’s inspiration are described with special emphasis on the biblical tradition, the Neoplatonic idea and earlier Christian writers. Next, the different ways of talking about God are shown, with a special accent on negative, apophatic theology. The author of the article concentrates on the question of the impossibility of knowing the essence of God, on the nature of mystical knowledge and on the role of love in uniting with God. He also shows the influence of the writings of Dionysius on the development of spiritual theology, paying particular attention to the mystical. Forever enshrined in mystical theology are such elements of his teaching as mystical theology, apophatism, ray of darkness, and the purgative, illuminative and unitive way to God.
