Episode 1802: Interior Castle - Fr Carpenter - Overview

The Interior Castle, also known as "The Mansions," is a spiritual classic written by St. Teresa of Ávila, a Spanish mystic and Carmelite nun. The book describes the journey of the soul toward God and is divided into seven mansions. Each mansion represents a stage in the soul's progress towards spiritual union with God. Here is a brief overview of the seven mansions:

First Mansion: The soul begins its journey by entering the castle through prayer and self-reflection. It seeks a deeper relationship with God and starts to overcome worldly attachments.

Second Mansion: The soul experiences a deeper awareness of its sinful nature and becomes more committed to prayer and spiritual practices. It seeks to overcome its imperfections and grow in virtue.

Third Mansion: In this stage, the soul begins to taste the consolations of God's presence. It develops a greater desire for prayer and a longing for more profound union with God.

Fourth Mansion: The soul encounters trials and challenges in the form of spiritual dryness and aridity. It requires perseverance in prayer and trust in God's guidance to overcome these difficulties.

Fifth Mansion: The soul experiences a transformative encounter with God's love. It enters into a deeper state of contemplation and communion with the divine.

Sixth Mansion: The soul reaches a profound level of union with God, experiencing a spiritual betrothal. It becomes increasingly detached from worldly concerns and desires.

Seventh Mansion: This final mansion represents the highest stage of mystical union with God. The soul experiences a complete and intimate union with the divine, reaching the pinnacle of spiritual perfection.

St. Teresa's Interior Castle serves as a guide for those seeking a deeper understanding of their spiritual journey and the path to divine union.