Mysticism, sexuality and gender relationships in Miguel de Molinos' radical quietism

Abstract

The article examines Miguel de Molinos’ doctrine, exposed in the Guia Espiritual (1675), its diffusion in Rome and condemnation by the Church (1687), as well as that of the theologian himself by the Roman Inquisition. It inserts the aforementioned doctrine in the mystical thought of the 17th century, in particular the Quetism. It discusses the heretical character of this doctrine, relating it to the porsuit of holiness and contemplation as means of spiritual salvation. It assesses whether the release of sexual desires by this doctrine is the main point of its condemnation as heresy. It exposes the case of the <<group of Viseu>>, in particular that of Joana Maria de Jesus, based on the process of the Lisbon Holly Office. It relates the doctrine and practice of the so-called Molinosismo, a kind of radical Quietism with the Catholic gender relationships model and the fight against the pastoral of fear in favour of absolution of sins, a principle which greatly benefited the women.