According to Christianity Today, philosopher and author James K. A. Smith has released a new book titled Make Your Home in This Luminous Dark: Mysticism, Art and the Path of Unknowing. Published by Yale University Press in June 2026, the work explores the intersections of mystical tradition, artistic expression, and the theological concept of unknowing.
The publication marks a continuation of the author’s long-standing academic career, which includes a notable trilogy on cultural liturgies. The author previously gained recognition for his analysis of how daily habits and cultural rituals shape human desires and religious identity. His earlier work, Desiring the Kingdom, served as a foundational text for those studies.
In this latest volume, the author examines how historical mystical traditions provide a framework for navigating modern life. He argues that art serves as a primary vehicle for engaging with the divine in ways that transcend purely intellectual or rational comprehension. The book suggests that embracing uncertainty is a necessary component of spiritual development.
The text also addresses the role of creative works in shaping the inner life of the believer. By analyzing various forms of art, the author attempts to demonstrate how aesthetic experiences can function as a form of prayer. He suggests that these encounters allow individuals to remain grounded even when faced with theological ambiguity.
Representatives from Yale University Press described the book as a significant contribution to contemporary religious literature. They noted that the author’s approach combines rigorous philosophical inquiry with a focus on personal spiritual practice. According to the publisher, the work is intended to reach both academic audiences and general readers interested in the relationship between faith and culture.
"Art acts as a bridge between the known and the unknown," the author stated regarding the book's central thesis.
The publisher has scheduled a series of promotional events throughout the summer to support the book's release. These engagements will include panel discussions and lectures at various university campuses and conferences across the country. Further details regarding upcoming speaking engagements and additional supplemental materials are expected to be announced on the publisher’s website by the end of July.
Source: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2026/06/lost-in-luminous-dark-book-review-wilson/