Monastic Perspectives on Temporality

In this book, Riitta Hujanen explores temporality in the context of Catholic enclosed contemplative traditions. It investigates, based on literature and other sources, what enclosed contemplatives might say about temporality through their monastic journeys. What makes a young person decide to dedicate their life inside a cloister? Do contemplatives have a preference for eternity over temporal time? How does the enclosed contemplative life impact one's concept of time? How is time perceived towards the end of one's monastic journey? What is seen when looking back to the years in the enclosed contemplative life? What is experienced at the hour of death?
The answers to these questions illustrate a paradoxical dynamic in monastic journeys that cover a broad historical scope from the earliest monastic writers to contemporary sources.

Invites the reader to join a monastic journey through centuries of contemplative traditions Explores monastic perspectives on past, present, future, and eternity through centuries Invites readers to investigate timeless monastic perspectives on temporality

Autorentext

Riitta Hujanen received her PhD in Theology and Religious Studies from Liverpool Hope University, United Kingdom. She serves as Chief Investment Officer of OP Asset Management.

Inhalt

1. Introduction.- 2. Research Elements and Structure.- 3. Beginning of the Journey.- 4. Middle of the Journey: Time in Monastery.- 5. End of the Monastic Journey.- 6. Findings and Suggestions for Further Research.