Here are poetic texts by one of the great German mystics of the 17th century, Angelus Silesius (1624-1677). These texts, written in the form of the epigram, are still used today for contemplative prayer and as part of German Christmas folklore.

Johannes Scheffler assumed the name Angelus Silesius on his leaving the Lutheran church to become a Catholic. He became enmeshed in the bitter controversies of post-Reformation Europe. Soon after his death, however, his masterpiece was claimed by Protestants and Catholics alike as their mystical classic. Frederick Franck shows the poets macro-ecumenical significance in the essay that introduces his translation of these verses, and by adding a "running commentary" of sayings by the ancient Japanese and Chinese masters, with whom this Christian mystic shows a remarkable affinity.

The Principle of Reason, the text of an important and influential lecture course that Martin Heidegger gave in 1955–56, takes as its focal point Leibniz's principle: nothing is without reason. Heidegger shows here that the principle of reason is in fact a principle of being. Much of his discussion is aimed at bringing his readers to the "leap of thinking," which enables them to grasp the principle of reason as a principle of being. This text presents Heidegger's most extensive reflection on the notion of history and its essence, the Geschick of being, which is considered on of the most important developments in Heidegger's later thought. One of Heidegger's most artfully composed texts, it also contains important discussions of language, translation, reason, objectivity, and technology as well as remarkable readings of Leibniz, Kant, Aristotle, and Goethe, among others.

Becoming God quite simply helps you define what God is and isn’t. Its short, eloquent 108 epigrams, written by a 17th-century German mystic, open a window into the heart of God and awaken the joy of spiritual connection open to everyone. In this vibrant new volume, you will find the treasure you may not have known you were seeking. Slow down to a stop. Sit quietly with each poem as a meditation, as a living prayer. ~ Mirabai Starr, author of Wild Mercy One of those rare, mystical jewels that enchant the soul. A perfect book to read on days when you are in need of grace. ~ Caroline Myss, author of Anatomy of the Spirit With these brilliant translations, Andrew Harvey brings us to the doorway of great wisdom. Once inside, we are reminded of that which we have most deeply forgotten— our inherent divinity. In these troubled times, this profound offering calls us home! ~ Jeff Brown, author of Grounded Spirituality

A beautifully crafted collection of poetry exploring themes of love, loss, and the natural world. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.