Ferrara Hosts Exploration of Mysticism, Ideology, and the “Practice of Dying”
Ferrara, Italy - The Municipality of Ferrara will host a lecture on December 15, 2025, at 5:00 PM, delving into the historical intersection of mysticism and philosophy, framed by the concept of “practicing to die.” The event will feature scholar Marco Vannini, whose research illuminates the connection between ancient philosophical thought and spiritual traditions.
Vannini’s presentation draws upon a lineage of thinkers who viewed detachment from worldly passions as a pathway to intellectual and spiritual liberation. This perspective, rooted in Platonic philosophy, finds resonance in Christian theology – notably articulated by Augustine – and continues through a tradition encompassing figures like Meister Eckhart, Angelus Silesius, Margherita Porete, and Simone Weil. The lecture aims to reintroduce this often-overlooked awareness, exploring its relevance to contemporary understanding of both philosophy and religious experience.
Vannini,born in 1948,has dedicated his work to uncovering the writings of historical mystics,particularly Meister Eckhart,and analyzing the relationship between mystical experience and philosophical inquiry. His published works include Mystical lexicon. The words of wisdom (2013), Mysticism, psychology, theology (2019), Introduction to mysticism (2021), and Know yourself and you will know yourself and God (2024). He is also the author of Beyond Christianity. From Eckhart to Le Saux, scheduled for publication by Lindau in 2025.
