Page "Julian of Norwich" Paragraph 7

Although Julian lived in a time of turmoil, her theology was optimistic, speaking of God's love in terms of joy and compassion as opposed to law and duty.

For Julian, suffering was not a punishment that God inflicted, as was the common understanding.

She believed that God loved and wanted to save everyone.

Popular theology, magnified by current events including the Black Death and a series of peasant revolts, asserted that God was punishing the wicked.

In response, Julian suggested a more merciful theology, which some say leaned towards universal salvation.

She believed that behind the reality of hell is a greater mystery of God's love.

In modern times, she has been classified as a proto-universalist, although she did not claim more than hope that all might be saved.