Spirituality and the Awakening Self

by Benner, David G.

• ISBN13: 9781587432965
• ISBN10: 158743296X
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-02-01
• Publisher: Brazos Pr

Summary

Being human is a lifelong journey of becoming. This journey defines our humanity, for it is a journey toward our source and our fulfillment, described in Christian theology as union with God. If we remain open to God as our sense of self awakens, we experience a deeper consciousness of being in him. The self that emerges during this process is larger, more enlightened, and whole. David Benner, who has spent thirty-five years integrating psychology and spirituality, presents psychological insights in a readable fashion to offer readers a deeper understanding of the self and its spiritual development. Drawing on a broad range of Christian traditions, Benner shows that the transformation of self is foundational to Christian spirituality. This book will appeal to readers interested in fresh explorations of spirituality; professionals engaged in pastoral care, counseling, and spiritual direction; and students in ministry development and spiritual formation courses. Reflection exercises for individual or group use are included at the end of each chapter.

Author Biography

David G. Benner (PhD, York University; post-doctoral studies, Chicago Institute of Psychoanalysis) is an internationally known psychologist, the author or editor of more than twenty books, a spiritual guide, and a personal transformation coach. He serves as Emeritus Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Spirituality at the Psychological Studies Institute, Rjchmont Graduate University. Visit his website at www.drdavidgbenner.ca.

Table of Contents

Preface: The Journey of Human Becoming	p. vii
Human Awakening	p. 1
Mapping the Unfolding Self	p. 19
Growth and the Lines of Development	p. 37
Transformation and the Levels of Development	p. 55
Learning from the Christian Mystics	p. 73
The Body-Centered Self	p. 89
The Mind-Centered Self	p. 105
The Soul-Centered Self	p. 121
The Spirit-Centered Self	p. 137
Spirituality and Awakening	p. 155
The Communal Context of Transformation	p. 173
Transformation and Transcendence	p. 191
Dreamwork for Growth and Transformation	p. 213
Meditation, Prayer, and Awakening	p. 222
Notes	p. 228
Index	p. 236
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