Les vécus de l’oraison et la phénoménologie de l’intentionnalité L’approche phénoménologique peut-elle éclairer l’expérience spirituelle de sainte Thérèse d’Avila ?

Abstract

This paper shows the way in which Teresa of Avila’s work and thought is phenomenological, as far as Teresa’s fundamental attitude towards mystical phenomena is concerned. The paper then proceeds to show that Husserl’s analysis of intentionality is relevant for a systematic approach to Teresa’s testimony. The interpretation of mental prayer experience, and of some key experiences, such as inner mystical speech-revelation, and intellective “visions”, reveals, however, that there is an original and very specific structure to this intentional relationship with the divine Persons. Husserl’s transcendental idealism is thus ultimately disclaimed.