Pregledni rad

Theory and praxis in spiritual discernment

Roko Prkačin ; Filozofski fakultet Družbe Isusove, Zagreb, Hrvatska

Sažetak

Spiritual discernment, as a method of making judgements in the light of our faith, is an element of biblical spirituality. The method itself in which this is done is contained in the traditional method of "discernment of spirits," but cannot be equated to it. This article presents the historical-biblical grounds for spiritual discernment and its spiritual-theological development. While we see traces of it in the Old Testament, we see in the New Testament the unfolding of its theory and praxis. Spiritual discernment corresponds to the perceptions of a mind which has been enlightened by faith and assisted by the action of the Holy Spirit. It is totally spiritual as it unfolds under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and forms judgements in the light of religious values. Spiritual discernment is a true art, the product of an active spiritual life and authentic prayer life guided by the Holy Spirit.
This is brought about primarily through personal prayer. While the goal of all spiritual discernment is to seek the will of God when it is unclear and undefined, as for instance in the seeking of a vocation. Its objective criteria are the Holy Scriptures and the teachings of the Church, while the subjective conditions are as follows: spiritual freedom, adherence to the Word of God, preparedness for change, and the experience of spiritual consolation and desolation. However, the process of spiritual discernment evolves in an aura of evangelic truth, as for example: truth, faith, responsibility and love. Truly, spiritual discernment, according to the Second Vatican Council, is a privileged means of seeking the will of God in our time.

Ključne riječi

Hrčak ID:

1198

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/1198

Datum izdavanja:

3.6.2003.

Podaci na drugim jezicima: hrvatski

Posjeta: 3.888 *