What is dark night of the soul stages?

The Dark Night of the Soul is a term that originates from the 16th-century Spanish mystic and poet St. John of the Cross. It refers to a spiritual crisis or a period of intense inner turmoil and despair that many individuals experience on their journey towards a deeper connection with the divine. The Dark Night of the Soul is often described as a time of profound suffering, feelings of abandonment, and spiritual emptiness.

There are generally two main stages or phases of the Dark Night of the Soul:

1. The Dark Night of Sense: In this stage, the individual experiences a sense of spiritual dryness, emptiness, and detachment from the physical world. It is a period of intense purification of the senses, where the person may feel a deep sense of loss or separation from God. This stage is often marked by feelings of loneliness, confusion, and despair.

2. The Dark Night of the Spirit: In this stage, the individual experiences a deeper level of purification, where the soul is stripped of all attachments and desires. This phase is characterized by a profound sense of spiritual desolation, a feeling of being abandoned by God, and a complete surrender of the self to divine will. The Dark Night of the Spirit is considered a more advanced and transformative stage of the spiritual journey, leading to a deepening of faith and a closer union with the divine.

It is important to note that experiencing the Dark Night of the Soul is not necessarily a negative or destructive experience, but rather a necessary process of growth and transformation on the spiritual path. Many mystics and spiritual seekers view this period as an essential step towards spiritual enlightenment and a deeper connection with God. If you are experiencing the Dark Night of the Soul, it is recommended to seek guidance from a spiritual teacher, counselor, or therapist to help navigate this challenging and transformative phase of the spiritual journey.