Christian and Zen Buddhist forms of mysticism share similarities and differences, particularly when comparing Christian prayers of Recollection, Quiet, and Contemplation with Zen practices like koan and zazen. Drawing on the works of Evelyn Underhill and D. T. Suzuki, the essay adapts methodologies from Donald Mitchell and Michael Washburn alongside New Comparative Theology. It argues that both traditions offer multidimensional paths to spiritual transformation without collapsing into syncretism, contributing to comparative theology.
A review of two books examines Protestant theologies of monastic life and cross-cultural mysticism. Greg Peters argues that sixteenth-century Reformers like Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli criticized medieval monasticism but did not seek its total abolition; many Protestant theologians from the sixteenth to twentieth centuries advocated a reformed monastic life congruent with the gospel. Phyllis Zagano's anthology introduces mystical traditions of Hinduism, Chinese religions, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, offering primary texts for comparative reading. The review notes Peters's book overlooks the connection between monasticism and mysticism, while Zagano's volume lacks depth and omits early Eastern Christian mystics. Both books, despite shortcomings, serve readers interested in Protestant monasticism or world mystical traditions.