The Dark Night of the Soul: A Psychiatrist Explores the Connection Between Darkness and Spiritual Growth

Written by Gerald G. May, MD

Narrated by Sean Runnette

A distinguished psychiatrist, spiritual counselor, and bestselling author shows how the dark sides of the spiritual life are a vital ingredient in deep, authentic, healthy spirituality.

Gerald G. May, MD, one of the great spiritual teachers and writers of our time, argues that the dark 'shadow' side of the true spiritual life has been trivialized and neglected to our serious detriment. Superficial and naively upbeat spirituality does not heal and enrich the soul. Nor does the other tendency to relegate deep spiritual growth to only mystics and saints. Only the honest, sometimes difficult encounters with what Christian spirituality has called and described in helpful detail as 'the dark night of the soul' can lead to true spiritual wholeness.

May emphasizes that the dark night is not necessarily a time of suffering and near despair, but a time of deep transition, a search for new orientation when things are clouded and full of mystery. The dark gives depth, dimension, and fullness to the spiritual life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Feb 4, 2020
• ISBN: 9781705202401

Reviews for The Dark Night of the Soul

[Prajakta Joshi · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A beautiful book about spirituality and psychology and how spiritual path can help psychological/ psychiatric issues! Absolutely loved it! Thank you so much!??

[Thomas Darragh · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Getting to know John and Teresa again through the eyes of Gerald May is spellbinding, enchanting, and brings me into the very room with our God. So many insights, so much Love to be gleaned, and a greater understanding of the dark night(s). The narrator is fabulous and his melodious and calming voice depict all the love Dr May had in writing this book and portrays the heart of calm and contemplation. Can’t wait to listen again

[Mikayla Bruder · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

There were several moments I found deep contemplation and reflection, worth the time to listen and be with your experiences.