The Dark Night of the Soul

1905

Brasch BV5080 JM8

London: John M. Watkins

Carmelite friar John of the Cross composed this mystical poem around the time he was imprisoned by Carmelites opposed to his reforms in the Order. The poem narrates the soul’s journey from its bodily home to its union with God. The journey is made during the night, which represents the various difficulties and sufferings the soul undergoes as it leaves the world behind and reaches the light of divine union. The dark night of the soul refers to a spiritual crisis in this journey towards union with God.