Lig uit Lig: Die metafisiese tradisie van metaforiese lignumineuse en die neerslag daarvan in Andrew Murray

Abstract

The symbolism of mystical consciousness, broadly speaking, belongs to three distinct kinds of temperament: Firstly, the idea of pilgrimage as a spiritual quest on man’s homeward journey to the Absolute; secondly, bridal mysticism with its deep mystical emphasis on the union of love between the Divine Word (as the Bridegroom) and the human soul (as the Bride), and, thirdly, the imagery of the New Birth and the remaking or transmutation of the self in its quest of unification with the Absolute. The metaphors in all three mystical traditions cover images rich in mystical symbols. Andrew Murray’s use of mystical imagery is no exception. His use of mystical metaphors include many references to light imagery expressive of his mystical orientations viz. God’s working, and the place where He gives His life and light is in the heart, deeper than all thoughts; take time to meditate and to worship, until the light that comes from the throne of God has shone into you, and you have seen your union with Christ, and, dwelling in God you dwell in the very fountain of all light. In this article, Andrew Murray’s reliance on a number of mystical traditions is discussed; secondly, the implications of Murray’s light mysticism are evaluated in the context of the metaphysical traditions of the mystical numenousness of light metaphors in the Medieval spiritual tradition. It is concluded that Murray’s mystical leanings are towards the mystical temperament of the transmutation of the mystical consciousness in the line of Plotin, Augustine, Ruysbroeck and Boehme.