This is an introduction, a study guide to the Dark Night of the Soul by John of the Cross. It gives all the necessary background for anyone who wishes to approach this great spiritual work with appropriate preparation in order to reap the benefits of one of the most challenging works in the history of spirituality. This book is a complete introduction to John of the Cross' book of the Dark Night. There is no such book available at present, even though interest in the writings and spirituality of John of the Cross have never been so pronounced. The book starts with the life of John of the Cross, identifying the dark nights of his own life. It provides the needed historical, religious, and personal background to appreciate and locate its content. It then presents readers with aids they can use to understand the work. With these preparations in mind the book moves on to present the stages of the spiritual life and the importance of the nights. A summary of John's own work brings readers in direct contact with the challenges of the message and its application today. The book ends with 20 key questions that often arise when someone reads this book. Throughout the book the reader is encouraged to develop the necessary attitudes, enthusiasm, spiritual sensitivity, and contemplative spirit needed in anyone who wishes to benefit from this spiritual masterpiece of John of the Cross.