The Lost Word (1907)

The Lost Word is a book written by Evelyn Underhill and first published in 1907. The book is a study of the mystical and spiritual aspects of Christianity, with a particular focus on the concept of the ''lost word'' or the ''name of God.'' Underhill explores the idea that this lost word is the key to unlocking the true nature of God and the universe, and she examines various mystical traditions from Christianity and other religions in order to shed light on this elusive concept.The book is divided into three parts. The first part provides an overview of the concept of the lost word and its importance in mystical traditions. Underhill discusses the relationship between language, symbolism, and spiritual experience, and she explores the role of the lost word in various mystical practices.The second part of the book focuses on the Christian mystical tradition, with a particular emphasis on the writings of the medieval mystic Meister Eckhart. Underhill examines Eckhart’s teachings on the nature of God, the soul, and the relationship between the two, and she shows how his ideas relate to the concept of the lost word.The third and final part of the book looks at the wider mystical tradition, including the teachings of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sufism. Underhill explores the ways in which these traditions approach the concept of the lost word, and she shows how they can be understood in relation to the Christian mystical tradition.Throughout the book, Underhill draws on a wide range of sources, including mystical texts, theological treatises, and personal accounts of spiritual experience. Her writing is clear and accessible, and she combines scholarly analysis with a deep appreciation of the spiritual insights offered by mystical traditions. The Lost Word remains a classic work of Christian mysticism and a valuable resource for anyone interested in the spiritual dimensions of Christianity or the wider mystical tradition.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world’s literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.