SYNESTHESIA IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY

Abstract

The aim of the article is to define a tangible contour for the study of synesthesia in theology. Since both the sensory and synesthetic studies have intensified over the last few decades, there has naturally been a need to recognize and articulate synesthesia in various layers of culture. Synaesthesia in theology has not been thoroughly and consistently researched, so this article outlines possible guidelines for such research from sensory research, opening up anthropological foundations and cultural dynamics, then exploring the tradition of spiritual senses in Christian theology, starting with Origen thinking and reviewing the patristic, medieval mystic tradition and turning to the return of the doctrine of spiritual senses to theology in the 20th century. Consistent attention is given to the synesthetic assumptions of theological aesthetics. According to the material of this study, the relationship between theology and synesthesia is developed, emphasizing the uniqueness of synesthesia manifestations in theology.