Quietism

Quietism is a Christian philosophy that swept through France, Italy and Spain during the 17th century.

Genesis

Quietism grew from the mysticism of the great 16th century Spaniards, Teresa of Avila and Saint John of the Cross

What quietism is

Quietism states that man's highest perfection consists of a psychical self-annihilation and a subsequent absorption of the soul into the Divine Essence, even during the present life. So the mind is withdrawn from worldy interests to passively and constantly contemplate God.

Quietism has been contrasted to the Buddhist doctrine of Nirvana.

Heresy?

Many Christians consider quitism heresy.

External links and references

• Catholic Encyclopedia on quietism
• Columbia Encyclopedia on quiteism
• More info
• Encyclopedia.com on quietism
• Informative 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica on quietism