An introductory anthology of wisdom from two thousand years of Christian mystical writings. The Christian mystics are the treasure of Western civilization -- yet they remain little known among those of us who are potentially their spiritual heirs. Andrew Harvey's anthology confronts us with the mystics in their own words, to show us how well they serve, even now, as guides for the spiritual life -- and to challenge our preconceived ideas about the path of Christianity. He has chosen selections that represent all eras of the Christian tradition, as well as the amazing range of people who have embodied it, people like Francis of Assisi, Meister Eckhart, Julian of Norwich, Teresa of Avila, Thomas Merton, Bede Griffiths, and many others. The book includes selections from: The Gospel of Thomas Gregory of Nyssa Dionysius the Areopagite Symeon the New Theologian Augustine of Hippo Julian of Norwich Mechtild of Magdeburg Angela of Foligno Francis of Assisi John Ruusbroec Meister Eckhart Teresa of vila John of the Cross Mirna Navour Bede Griffiths and many others