Make Your Home in This Luminous Dark: Mysticism, Art, and the Path of Unknowing
Path: Make Your Home in This Luminous Dark is philosopher James K. A. Smith’s exploration of uncertainty through Christian mysticism and creative works. It draws on Saint Teresa of Ávila, Saint John of the Cross and the author of The Cloud of Unknowing, alongside contemporary novels, poetry, film and paintings.
At a glance
- Explores how to live with uncertainty through the Christian contemplative tradition.
- Draws on the mysticism of Saint Teresa of Ávila, Saint John of the Cross and The Cloud of Unknowing.
- Connects contemplative ideas with contemporary novels, poetry, film and paintings.
Reference price: $41.95
Price checked: 13 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Brings mystical writing and creative works together with a philosophical inquiry into uncertainty.
- The stated 256-page length offers a defined scope for readers seeking a focused exploration.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Yale University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 17 May 2026 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 256 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0300279760 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0300279764 |
| Weight listed | 352 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.48 x 3.05 x 19.3 cm |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in Christian mysticism, contemplative traditions and religious philosophy.
- Those looking for philosophical reflections on uncertainty, connected with art and literature.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a practical step-by-step guide or a book focused only on art history.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
76% 76% - 4 stars
10% 10% - 3 stars
7% 7% - 2 stars
7% 7% - 1 star
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Customer feedback praises the book’s interwoven treatment of art and mystic wisdom, including the idea of treating not knowing as a sacred practice. The content is also described positively, with a customer saying it is worth revisiting. This may appeal to readers seeking reflective connections between contemplation and creative work. Aggregate ratings are favourable overall, though they do not explain individual readers’ reasons for their views.
Positive themes
- Customers praise the combination of art and mystic wisdom.
- Feedback describes the content positively and mentions rereading.
Frequently asked questions
What is this book about?
It examines how mystical traditions can inform life with uncertainty, connecting Christian contemplation with philosophical questions and creative works.
Which mystics are discussed?
The listing names Saint Teresa of Ávila, Saint John of the Cross and the author of The Cloud of Unknowing.
What publication details are listed?
The listing gives Yale University Press as publisher, a publication date of 17 May 2026, a first edition and a print length of 256 pages.
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