Edith Stein and Simone Weil

Abstract

With a view to suggesting some points for reflection regarding a viable theology and spirituality of the cross, this article highlights certain themes from the writings of Edith Stein and Simone Weil concerning the cross and suffering. The convergence of thought of these two diverse philosophers on certain topics is particularly striking. Similarly, they employ the analogy of a seed for the cross, assign a special significance to Jesus' felt abandonment by God, and recognize that some persons share in this aspect of Christ's passion in the dark night of the soul.