Book II, Chapter III Summary and Analysis

It is necessary for the spirit and sensual portion of the man to be separated in the first night before the soul can experience the second night of darkness. In this second night, both parts of the soul are purged together. It is important, however, that the two first experience the tranquility of the first night to develop the strength needed to suffer through the second night of purgation. Even after they have been through the first night, believers are still merely spiritual children. They still react to God and refer to Him in a way similar to that of children. In order for these immature Christians to become spiritual adults, they must suffer through the second night of purgation.