Fitness Quote by Dorothee Soelle
““All mysticism is part of the endeavor to escape from this fate of language that serves the exercise of power, control, and possession. Traditional Western theology has most often defined the authentic relationship of believers to God as "obedience." This presupposes the separation between the one who commands and the one who obeys. How could creator and creature be united in oneness? Mystical theology has sought to depict a different unity or union than that which is based on dominance and, in so doing, has always appealed to biblical passages . . . This fundamental idea of union appears in different words in the following verses from John: "that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, ... that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and thou in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may believe that thou has sent me" (John 17:2.1-2.Z). All dualistic discourse of lord and servant, speaking and listening, and free and slave is left behind here . . .””
About This Quote
Source Book: Theology and Politics, 1975
Mystical theology seeks unity beyond power hierarchies, emphasizing shared divinity.
In simple terms: Mysticism aims for oneness, not domination.
Key Takeaway
Pursue relational unity over authority.
Themes
spirituality
unity
power structures
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
inspirational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- interfaith dialogue
- community building
- personal spiritual practice
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
ecumenism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can communities balance unity with justice?
- What practices foster authentic shared identity?
A Different Perspective
Risk of idealizing unity without addressing real power imbalances.
