Mystical Ascent and Union with Christ in Clement of Alexandria’s Thought
Similarities and Differences with Stromateis V.6
We encounter the same foundational ideas in Excerpta ex Theodoto 27 as in Stromateis V.6, but with notable differences:
- The Second Veil: In Excerpta ex Theodoto 27, the second veil represents the noetic world rather than the fixed sphere. This subtle shift highlights the evolving nature of Clement’s mystical symbolism.
- Laying Aside the Body: The act of laying aside the body, symbolized by the golden plate, occurs within the noetic world, not at its entrance. This differs from Stromateis V.6, where the high priest's regular robe symbolizes this action.
- Altar of Incense: The location of the altar of incense appears to differ. In Stromateis V.6, it is situated in front of the second veil inside the holy place. In Excerpta ex Theodoto 27, it seems to be within the veil itself or the holy of holies, aligning with the information in Hebrews 9:3–4.
- Becoming High Priestly: The transformation into a truly high priestly state occurs at the transition from the noetic world to the pneumatic realms. This contrasts with Stromateis V.6, where it happens before entering the noetic world.
New Symbolic Ideas
Excerpta ex Theodoto 27 introduces new symbolic ideas, enriching Clement’s mystical theology:
- Sexual and Marital Symbolism: The soul’s union with Christ is described using sexual and marital symbolism, a common motif in Christian mysticism (cf. Eph 5:31–32). This imagery conveys the intimacy and profound connection achieved in divine union.
- Transformation into a Body of Power: The soul is transformed into “a body of the power,” animated directly by the Logos. Clement often refers to Christ as the power of God (from 1 Cor 1:24), suggesting that the soul becomes a body controlled by Christ. This transformation represents a metaphysical promotion in status, akin to archangels becoming high priests of angels and protoctists becoming high priests of archangels.
Gnostic Soul’s Incorporation into the Divine Administration
Clement’s descriptions highlight the gnostic soul’s incorporation into the divine administration as an angel. The pneumatic realms are home to angelic beings, and the soul, now transformed and united with Christ, becomes one of them. This union is likened to a marriage, where the soul, as the bride, joins Christ, the bridegroom.
Scott Brown's Insights
Scott Brown’s analysis underscores the depth and complexity of Clement’s mystical ascent. Brown’s research reveals how Clement uses rich allegorical language and complex symbolism to convey the stages of spiritual purification and the ultimate goal of unmediated divine vision. By exploring these dual dimensions of ascent—both present and postmortem—Brown provides a nuanced understanding of Clement’s mystical theology.
For those interested in delving deeper into these themes, Scott Brown’s paper Behind the Seven Veils, I: The Gnostic Life Setting of the Mystic Gospel of Mark is an essential resource. Brown meticulously examines Clement’s cosmology and soteriology, offering readers a comprehensive perspective on the spiritual ascent envisioned by early Christian mystics.
Conclusion
Clement of Alexandria’s teachings on the mystical ascent and union with Christ offer a profound vision of spiritual development. By blending allegorical language and complex theological ideas, Clement provides a rich framework for understanding the stages of purification and the ultimate goal of divine union. Scott Brown’s insightful analysis helps us appreciate the depth of Clement’s mystical teachings, providing valuable insights into the hidden mysteries of early Christian spirituality. For a thorough exploration of these profound ideas, Brown’s paper is an invaluable guide.
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