Carl Jung & the Quest for a Mature Spirituality

In striking contrast to Freud, Carl Jung believed a primary task of the second half of life to be the attainment of a “mature spirituality” that guides us beyond the narrow confines of the ego and addresses the question of our life’s meaning.

Jung focused on the process through which we become the whole and distinct individual that is our destiny, while simultaneously deepening our awareness of connection to every living being. In his view, we are all seeking contact with the “numinous,” the mystery out of which religions arise but often lose touch with.

In this class we will consider this quest and provide opportunity for sharing the varied sources from which we’ve found guidance. We will review a significant portion of the material previously covered in the spring 2024 class regarding Jung’s basic concepts and his experiences that shaped his worldview.

There is no required reading. Class format includes slides, lecture and discussion.

----------

Instructor: Jeff Edwards

A graduate of Earlham College and Yale Divinity School, I spent forty years as a pastor engaged with Bible stories and parables, but do not assume a person’s spirituality must be grounded in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Luminaries like Rumi, Etty Hillesum, Rachel Naomi Remen and James Hollis have also provided me with insight.

Photo credit: Carl Jung's Red Book