ABSTRACT
The images and metaphors in which it is expressed are predominantly those of the public and collective realm rather than those of the private, inner life - although the latter is certainly not neglected. Yet it is precisely this that has largely been the fate of the Christian mystique in much of the western world since the Enlightenment. As one dimension after another of public life has been surrendered - or has found its emancipation and autonomy - the mystique has been relegated to private and family life. The vision is not only in the indicative mood; it includes principles and imperatives as well. It is more than a neutral back-drop to the drama of politics. The principles within the vision may appear to be fairly general, uncontroversial and imprecise. The mystique nourishes politique by sustaining those who have to cope with the tensions, ambiguities and problems of policymaking and the taking of decisions.
