ABSTRACT
This chapter reveals the theoretical and theological implications of using a vocabulary of the body in discussions about the soul. The knowledge most fitting to the task of healing wounded souls was medical theory as understood from experience with the body. Theological medicine sprang from a long-standing acceptance that there existed in mankind a dual relationship between body and soul. Drawing inspiration from the works of Hugh of Fouilloy and William of Saint-Thierry, the focus is on the extent to which it is possible to understand of human anatomy and physiology and apply it analogically to spiritual care. Origen and Isaac of Stella worried about a metaphorical blindness caused by a lack of spiritual discernment, whereas William of Saint-Thierry discussed vision with regard to body and soul. The resulting texts presented an argument for cosmic harmony that any religious could use to great effect to prevent and treat wounded souls in his own microcosm, the monastery.
