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To Heaven With Diana!: A Study of Jordan of Saxony and Diana dýAndalý with a Translation of the Letters of Jordan
First published in 1960, this study and translation (from the original Latin) of the letters of Jordan of Saxony (c. 1190-1237), a Dominican friar, to Diana d'Andalò (1200-1236), a cloistered Dominican nun, brings to life an extraordinary friendship, forged in their shared love of God.
158 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2006
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
January 23, 2023
Beautiful book on the relationship between 13th century Dominicans Blesseds Jordan of Saxony and Diana D'andalo. Really appreciated Vann's commentary on their unique friendship; whereas a deep, passionate love between a celibate man and a celibate woman could be misconstrued as sensual and inappropriate, Vann essentially makes the case that men and women can indeed be true friends without anything leading to the realm of marital intimacy. He is also clear to communicate the fine balance to be struck to achieve such an intimate, yet completely platonic friendship.
This book and the letters of Jordan to Diana gave me hope and encouragement for opposite sex relationships, especially when celibacy is in consideration. One must have appropriate and necessary boundaries, of course, but it doesn't mean that real intimacy isn't lacking. In fact, it is Diana and Jordan's common commitment to Christ through consecrated life that enables them to deeply love each other. These dynamics need not be hyper-sensualised (and I use the word sensual, not sexual, as all love between humans is sexual--the uniqueness of how a man or woman gives themselves to another, even without physical intercourse). The answer to men and women being "only" friends continues to be very nuanced, but it is entirely possible and even holy.
This book and the letters of Jordan to Diana gave me hope and encouragement for opposite sex relationships, especially when celibacy is in consideration. One must have appropriate and necessary boundaries, of course, but it doesn't mean that real intimacy isn't lacking. In fact, it is Diana and Jordan's common commitment to Christ through consecrated life that enables them to deeply love each other. These dynamics need not be hyper-sensualised (and I use the word sensual, not sexual, as all love between humans is sexual--the uniqueness of how a man or woman gives themselves to another, even without physical intercourse). The answer to men and women being "only" friends continues to be very nuanced, but it is entirely possible and even holy.
September 6, 2010
A must-read for anyone interested in Dominican spirituality.
March 5, 2021
The thirteenth century friendship between Jordan and Diana is an unusual story about Dominicans, which is vividly captured in this highly accessible book.
The relationship is unusual in that Jordan was the head of the multi-national Dominican order and Diana was a nun in Bologna. She is a strong willed character who had to fight her family for the right to become a nun. At one point they tried to kidnap her out of a convent, injuring her so badly that she carried the effects for the rest of her life.
The correspondence shows the touching regard they have for each other, as well as glimpses of their daily struggles, illnesses and spiritual challenges. Jordan's humanity and sensitivity is particularly clear when he stresses the importance to Diana of moderation. Much better to be patient and loving towards the members of her community than to be starving or hurting herrself!
Some of the letters show us touching little issues which they are dealing with. In Letter 21 for example, Jordan asks Diana if she can care for a German girl. But as the convent is in Italy, Jordan asks that the girl should have the opportunity to speak German at least once a week, so that she retains her native language skills.
The book contains a good modern translations of the letters, as well as a clear introduction to contextualise the characters and issues. As such, it provides exactly what a reader needs to be able to engage with the letters and understand their content and significance.
The relationship is unusual in that Jordan was the head of the multi-national Dominican order and Diana was a nun in Bologna. She is a strong willed character who had to fight her family for the right to become a nun. At one point they tried to kidnap her out of a convent, injuring her so badly that she carried the effects for the rest of her life.
The correspondence shows the touching regard they have for each other, as well as glimpses of their daily struggles, illnesses and spiritual challenges. Jordan's humanity and sensitivity is particularly clear when he stresses the importance to Diana of moderation. Much better to be patient and loving towards the members of her community than to be starving or hurting herrself!
Some of the letters show us touching little issues which they are dealing with. In Letter 21 for example, Jordan asks Diana if she can care for a German girl. But as the convent is in Italy, Jordan asks that the girl should have the opportunity to speak German at least once a week, so that she retains her native language skills.
The book contains a good modern translations of the letters, as well as a clear introduction to contextualise the characters and issues. As such, it provides exactly what a reader needs to be able to engage with the letters and understand their content and significance.
February 6, 2021
Beautiful record of the friendship of these two great Dominicans. The letters are rich with Scriptural passages and loving encouragement. It is quite evident how important were the prayers of Bld. Diana and her OP Sisters to the ministry of Bld. Jordan in his travels and preaching as Master General.
The opening section gave excellent historical background, as did brief passages before certain collections of letters. I don't retain a lot of historical facts well, but it is very good to have them as a reference.
The opening section gave excellent historical background, as did brief passages before certain collections of letters. I don't retain a lot of historical facts well, but it is very good to have them as a reference.
December 12, 2024
Beautiful letters between heartfelt friends in religious life. Very edifying.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews