A pilgrim blessing - An alluring folklore or expression of piety? Theological insights from the Camino de Santiago

Abstract

This article focuses on various forms of contemporary pilgrims' blessings on the Camino de Santiago, its theological meaning and impact on pilgrims' perception of their way to Compostela, as well as its changes or transformations resulting from interaction of many cultures on the Camino de Santiago. This analysis is based on empirical research among pilgrims realized in 2019 which also includes interpretation of theological sources from medieval up to contemporary literature. Trying to combine theological with sociological aspects of this liturgical rite of pilgrim blessing on the Camino, the spiritual content and cause of its popularity are presented.