Abstract

This inquiry clarifies the concept of 'genuine mystery' as a transcendent, 'uplifting' and 'illuminating' presence in contrast with 'mystery' as simply 'that which we do not know,' or as 'that which we can apprehend but not comprehend.' It also provides an initial warrant for the concept of genuine mystery. Particular attention is given to Simone Weil's life and thought as it concerns genuine mystery. ;Chapter One provides examples of the use of the concept of genuine mystery as more than 'what we can apprehend but not comprehend.' This more concerns a real, particular, independent presence which is a 'fullness' and 'glorious radiance' which transcends the grasp of reason and our ability to speak of it in clear and distinct terms. Chapter Two shows how Weil's life and thought reflected two diverse orientations one may have to genuine mystery: the 'objective orientation' and the 'contemplative orientation.' The 'contemplative orientation' alone provides adequate epistemological grounds for coming to understand and be convinced of genuine mystery. Chapter Three attends to the epistemological oddity of metaphysical and theological reflection on genuine mystery by considering Austin Farrer's comments. Chapter Four discusses Simone Weil's understanding of mystery in terms of contradiction; her criteria for the use of the concept of mystery; her concepts of "necessity," "matter," the Logos; "persons"; and mystery and metaxu. Genuine mystery is seen as providing the fundamental context of her thought. Chapter Five presents Gabriel Marcel and Karl Rahner's views of mystery as a more than 'that which we can apprehend but not comprehend.' Chapter Six summarizes the foregoing and offers suggestions for further inquiry. Chapter Seven addresses Weil's understanding of "apprenticeship" and "illumination" with respect to genuine mystery. Chapter Eight illustrates the importance of genuine mystery for science, work, culture, philosophy and theology and concludes with a summary of characteristics of genuine mystery and suggestions for further inquiry