A Mystical-Political Pledge

The Nexus of the Nazareno Devotion and Politics

By (author) W.A. Espiritu

Book cover: A Mystical-Political Pledge

Extent: 381 pages

Publisher: Peeters Publishers

Subjects: Asian/Pacific Studies & Religions, Religious Studies

Series: Louvain Theological & Pastoral Monographs

Series volume number: 49, 49

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(May 2024)

ISBN: 9789042952966

Price: $68.00

In stock

eBook (Published)

(May 2024)

ISBN: 9789042952973

Price: $68.00

This book explores the potential for the devotional panata (pledge) accorded to the Nazareno of Quiapo, Manila to underscore the inextricable relationship between the mystical and the political dimensions of the Christian faith. Espiritu puts forward a theological model that rejects overemphasis on the panata’s mystical quality in favor of a balanced appreciation for its political as well as mystical implications. The central contention is that understanding the panata as “a mystical-political pledge” provides a basis for realizing the political potential of this practice vis-a-vis its mystical character. Should this enriched understanding of the panata reinforce the conscientious political engagement of millions of Nazareno devotees, then this popular devotion would manifest as an effective vehicle for the liberative and transformative grace of Christ in today’s Philippine society.


This book explores the potential for the devotional panata (pledge) accorded to the Nazareno of Quiapo, Manila to underscore the inextricable relationship between the mystical and the political dimensions of the Christian faith. Espiritu puts forward a theological model that rejects overemphasis on the panata’s mystical quality in favor of a balanced appreciation for its political as well as mystical implications. The central contention is that understanding the panata as “a mystical-political pledge” provides a basis for realizing the political potential of this practice vis-a-vis its mystical character. Should this enriched understanding of the panata reinforce the conscientious political engagement of millions of Nazareno devotees, then this popular devotion would manifest as an effective vehicle for the liberative and transformative grace of Christ in today’s Philippine society.

  • By (author) W.A. Espiritu