Bernardas Klervietis: Mistiko Žvilgsnis Į Pasaulį
Bernard of Clairvaux: Mystical Picture of the World

Summary/Abstract: In the article the concept of exclusive mysticism, uniting theoretical and practical peculiarities of its expression, by Bernard of Clairvaux is analyzed. Faith and contemplation is the main supernatural abilities of a mystic, by means of which man’s intellectual activity apprehends reality and its own Creator. Mysticism is monastic asceticism supported by intellectual abilities and divine grace. It reflects the links of theoretical moral harmony and metaphysical pulchritude. During them, the indestructible internal beauty and sensation of affinity to deity comes into being. The sensation of mystical reality is incompatible with mundane delights and carnal pleasures. Bernard saw the new moral behavior of Christendom in the union of the ideals of knightly and monastic life. He elaborated the knightly Code of Honor and the program of knightly virtues as instruction for the protection of Christianity and struggle for goodness and truth. The idea of knighthood is presented as Christ’s suffering for faith. Bernard saw the way to personal salvation and sainthood in the fight against the earthly enemies of Christianity and thoughts, propagated by heretics. Relaying on the authority of the Church he severely criticized dialecticians, who tried to overshadow his exclusive mysticism by rationalizing theology.

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