The medieval sect of Christianity known as the Albigensians took self-denial to the highest peak: they viewed the "holiest" death as self-starvation. This idea intrigues me, partly because of its affect on the imagination of Simone Weil, whose partisan I am, and partly because of the linking of contrite self-denial with holiness.
Weil, who had a predisposition towards ascetic self-denial which coincided with her anorexia, was mesmerised by the idea of embracing the true ideal of Christianity. An Atheist for most of her life, she embraced Christianity intellectually after much study and debate. The movement over her soul of troubled emotions sought in Christianity a release, and an acceptance.
As she could not accept herself, but sought to sacrifice herself, the Albigensian doctrine seized her imagination and determination in equal measure: she did indeed starve herself to death, and died in the Christian faith.
Was this needless sacrifice? Your faith's view on self-denial?
2007-10-23
20:49:39
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9 answers
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asked by
Jack B, goodbye, Yahoo!
6
in
Religion & Spirituality