Triple way (Christianity)

Rather than three successive stages, the triple way refers to the three separate but parallel courses which, followed together, lead to internal order and mystical union with God. According to the Franciscan school, these three exercises of hierarchical actions are said to be [purgative]

, [illuminative]

and [unitive]

; and are said to be achieved through organized meditation, through prayer and through contemplation. However Pseudo-Dionysius and others also class the three ways in a hierarchy so that "beginners" are those attempting to purify themselves of sin, "proficients" are seeking illumination, and the "perfect" act in union with God.