Wanderings and Moments of Pause: Biblical Motifs in Mistyka Gór [Mountain Mysticism] by Roman E. Rogowski

Abstract

Mistyka gór [Mountain Mysticism] is a book which has been reprinted several times, translated into several languages, and described as “legendary”, especially for those readers who are lovers of mountains. The author – R.E. Rogowski – is a priest, theologian, scholar and mountaineer. Mistyka gór is of a hybrid nature, lying on the border between literature and theology. This article proposes an interpretation of this book from a geopoetics perspective, as a meditative guide to Israel, an autobiography, and a mountain narrative. In each of these cases, the biblical motifs of mountains play a crucial role. Peaks mentioned in the Bible mark the pilgrimage trail, order the story of the author’s life, and stand as the mountaineer’s goals. They also form pretexts for a broader existential reflection. Rogowski writes about his mountain wanderings and moments of pause, which have both literal and metaphorical meanings. He primarily draws attention to these pauses. They signify not only a chance to rest, but also to pray and contemplate. It makes Rogowski’s book both unique and original.