Cloud of Unknowing

In the late 13th Century, when this text was written. The young novice is no different in his quest to turn his back on the world and seek the very face of God. In response to this request, the author guides this young apprentice via numerous letters over a period of time. This work known as “The Cloud of Unknowing is comprised of 75 chapters. The author's object is to explain the transformation of a fellow contemplative's ascent into union with God. The transformation and changes that take place within their mind and hearts as they approach God. The ascent is based on Dionysian techniques which appear to be offered in a disorderly presentation. The novice is perhaps uneducated in Latin and therefore unable to appreciate the literature directly himself. This work is comprised of numerous letters over a period of time, therefore this work does not appear to have a tight sequential approach but tends to vacillate from section to section as the need to clarify arises within the novice. The Cloud of Unknowing is where God has historically revealed Himself. In Gen 3, in which the entire chapter is devoted to this encounter. In 1 Kings 19:11-14, Elijah once again, on a mountain encounters God in the same manner. Man has not encountered God face to face since the day when God last walked in the Garden Gen 3:8. Thus, ever since man attempts to seek Him veiled behind 'a cloud of unknowing'. In the Exodus, the Israelites were led by a cloud during the day. In the Jewish temple, the inner sanctum was no different. First and foremost, the writer relies on Augustin and Pseudo-Dionysius, two very potent writers; the first, whose works are the basic fundamentals of Christian dogma and the other mysticism. Right from the start he uses a dichotomy. Yet, these two titans, each formidable in their own right, balance each other out and give excellent stability as the author ascends. The ascent is based on Dionysian techniques which appears to be a disorderly condition. The novice is perhaps uneducated in Latin and therefore unable to appreciate the literature directly himself.