Word Song
A Mystical Theology
by Dann Wigner
Imprint: Cascade Books
140 Pages, 5.50 x 8.50 x 0.28 in
- Paperback
- 9781666739343
- Published: June 2023
$16.00 / £13.00 / AU$24.00
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This collection of sayings grows directly out of the point where nondiscursive experience meets traditional, discursive theology. Christians who are interested in nondiscursive, or nondual, thought have few practical tools that exist to help them situate themselves and their experiences theologically. An old form of Christian spiritual theology, the "sayings theology," has as its goal to cause one to pause and reflect, which opens the door to invite in nondiscursive thinking. This theology is an explicitly mystical theology because it is not about stating logically what Christians believe about God; it is about meeting God through reflection. As a result, these sayings raise questions more than settle them, creating an openness to meet God. It is this openness which is the most characteristic mark of a mystical theology.
Dann Wigner is a mystical theologian and religious sociologist. He has taught at multiple universities and currently teaches for All Saints Episcopal School in Lubbock, Texas. Wigner has previously published several books, including Thinking Spiritually in Small Groups: The Practice of Mystical Reflection. Follow him at http://spiritualitystepbystep.com.
“There is something so blissfully perennial in a spiritual teaching that takes you to the edge and allows you to make the jump. Dann Wigner has not created a new system, but he has tapped into an ancient root that continues to draw water to the surface. In his new book, Word Song, you will find a compelling and artistic rendering of a spiritual teaching that connects past to present in a luminous way.”
—Justin Gibson, rector, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church
“Invocative, invigorating, yet relaxed, Dann Wigner’s writing is inclusive and welcoming. For anyone wanting to experience a ‘sayings theology,’ Lectio Divina, and mystical meditation, here awaits beautiful word space for endless reflections. As a musician and fan of Tolkien and C. S. Lewis, I appreciate Word Song allowing us to simply ‘be’ in the suspended moment where holy universes are sung into existence. Dann helps us meet God ‘in the middle’ where we increase our spiritual wakefulness.”
—Caroline Carson, dean of the Atlantic Convocation, Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey