The Sequential Unveiling of Divine Truth in Clement of Alexandria’s Mystical Theology

Clement of Alexandria’s mystical teachings present a structured and sequential approach to unveiling divine truths, reflecting a deep and progressive journey towards spiritual enlightenment. Building on the ideas discussed in the previous blog post, this exploration delves into the process of unveiling metaphysical truths, as described by Clement, and the hierarchical progression involved in this journey. This discussion is deeply informed by Scott Brown's insightful analysis in his paper Behind the Seven Veils, I: The Gnostic Life Setting of the Mystic Gospel of Mark.

The Hierarchical Progression of Unveiling

Clement of Alexandria speaks of the revelation of metaphysical truths concealed in the scriptures as the “unveiling [of] the holy of holies.” This process is not a singular event but a sequential unveiling “according to a hierarchical progression” (κατ’ ἐπανάβασιν). This hierarchical imagery implies a series of veils dividing the innermost sanctuary into multiple chambers, each representing a deeper level of divine truth.

The Holy of Holies and Its Garments

In Stromateis V.6, Clement describes the high priest donning his special “holy of holies garment” and mentions that this garment “goes with him into the innermost chambers (τὰ ἄδυτα)” (39.3). This passage suggests that the innermost sanctuary is not a single space but consists of a series of chambers, each corresponding to a distinct level within the Ogdoad—a term representing the eightfold celestial realm.

Successive Levels of Teaching

Clement’s imagery of unveiling implies that Christ, through successive levels of teaching, reveals progressively “more sacred” aspects of divinity. These aspects exist within successively higher abodes and become perceptible as the soul progresses. This sequential unveiling mirrors the soul’s journey in the afterlife, corresponding to the six stages of progression through the three angelic ranks described in Eclogae propheticae 57.5. Each stage represents a deeper understanding and closer proximity to the divine.

The Final Stage: Contemplation of Christ

The culmination of this journey is the contemplation of Christ “face to face” in “the first abode,” which is one level below Christ. This ultimate stage represents the soul’s direct and unmediated vision of the divine, achieving the highest form of spiritual enlightenment and union with God.

Scott Brown's Insights

Scott Brown’s analysis emphasizes the structured and progressive nature of Clement’s mystical ascent. Brown highlights how Clement uses allegorical and symbolic language to convey a detailed journey through various levels of spiritual development, culminating in the ultimate vision of the divine.

For those interested in exploring these themes further, Scott Brown’s paper Behind the Seven Veils, I: The Gnostic Life Setting of the Mystic Gospel of Mark offers an essential resource. Brown meticulously examines Clement’s cosmology and soteriology, providing readers with a comprehensive perspective on the spiritual ascent envisioned by early Christian mystics.

Conclusion

Clement of Alexandria’s teachings on the sequential unveiling of divine truths offer a rich and detailed vision of spiritual development. By blending allegorical language with deep theological insights, Clement outlines a structured journey toward the highest forms of knowledge and union with God. Scott Brown’s insightful analysis helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of Clement’s mystical theology, offering 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.