God after Metaphysics: A Theological Aesthetic
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Overview
While philosophy believes it is impossible to have an experience of God without the senses, theology claims that such an experience is possible, though potentially idolatrous. In this engagingly creative book, John Panteleimon Manoussakis ends the impasse by proposing an aesthetic allowing for a sensuous experience of God that is not subordinated to imposed categories or concepts. Manoussakis draws upon the theological traditions of the Eastern Church, including patristic and liturgical resources, to build a theological aesthetic founded on the inverted gaze of icons, the augmented language of hymns, and the reciprocity of touch. Manoussakis explores how a relational interpretation of being develops a fuller and more meaningful view of the phenomenology of religious experience beyond metaphysics and onto-theology.
Synopsis
While philosophy believes it is impossible to have an experience of God without the senses, theology claims that such an experience is possible, though potentially idolatrous. In this engagingly creative book, John Panteleimon Manoussakis ends the impasse by proposing an aesthetic allowing for a sensuous experience of God that is not subordinated to imposed categories or concepts. Manoussakis draws upon the theological traditions of the Eastern Church, including patristic and liturgical resources, to build a theological aesthetic founded on the inverted gaze of icons, the augmented language of hymns, and the reciprocity of touch. Manoussakis explores how a relational interpretation of being develops a fuller and more meaningful view of the phenomenology of religious experience beyond metaphysics and onto-theology.
Editorials
Choice
"... [A] solid contribution to the growing literature in continental philosophy of religion.... Recommended." —ChoiceJournal for Cultural and Religious Theory
... [a] combined ability to revitalize traditional sources and to make everyday phenomena glimmer under its examination, God after Metaphysics is sure to provoke both debate and wonder for those interested in continental philosophy of religion.—Wilson Dickinson, Dept Religion at Syracuse University, Journal for Cultural and Religious Theory, vol. 9 no. 3 (Fall 2008)— Wilson Dickinson, Dept Religion at SyracuseUniversity
Religious Studies Review
"... Manoussakis's book frames some interesting questions for philosophical theology. His use of Eastern theology as a complement to continental philosophy of religion is adroit and adds to his unique argument." —Forrest Clingerman, Ohio Northern University, Religious Studies Review, Vol. 34, 4 Nov, 2008— Forrest Clingerman, Ohio Northern University
Reviews in Religion and Theology
"Manoussakis offers brilliant examples of how phenomenology fosters a deeper understanding of the essentially interpersonal dimension of human existence and an encounter with the divine.... the reader will find it hard to deny that phenomenology, insofar as neatly compliments classical metaphysics, is a welcome companion on the theological journey." —Daniel B. Gallagher, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Reviews in Religion and Theology, Vol. 16, 1 December 2008— Daniel B. Gallagher, Sacred Heart Major Seminary