Teresa Mystical Theology

Question 1

intellect

Answer 1

1. the first three dwelling places require recollection and
   prayer. Intellect is the leading factor: discursive thoughts and meditation;
2. From 5-7 chambers, intellect doesn’t understand, and person is unable to see the beauty of the
   castle and prevented from calming down

Question 2

will (for first 3 chambers)

Answer 2

although the will does not desire to offend God, the person needs to pray for
intercession to fight for her; the senses and faculties have little strength to
defend themselves against the pull of worldly attachments

Question 3

Gender Politics in Teresa:

Answer 3

1. Teresa had a confessor to discuss her spiritual life with, and to control what
   she said or wrote.

Question 4

Problem with confessors

Answer 4

feared and doubted her experiences

Question 5

Confessor: Problem with authenticity of religious experience

Answer 5

confessor had no theological categories or experiential
wherewithal.
Twice Teresa was sent before the Spanish Inquisition.

Question 6

How does Terese sublimate?

Answer 6

Sublimation: to repress in order to go higher/further (playing down outward sexuality but sexualizing, in some aspects, her relationship with Christ in this interior manner)

Question 7

Teresa’s 1st principles

Answer 7

1. Friendship with God, through Christ
2. Love of God, generating desire
3. Divine (omni)presence and participation
4. mental prayer: intimate sharing between friends
5. first 3 dwelling places: ordinary; latter 4: passive/mystical elements

Question 8

Influence of Valdes Index

Answer 8

Valdes: list of prohibited books, encouraged mystical turn to the Word within