Comparative Mysticism
Comparative philosophy of religion January 1, 2025 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-07271-9_4 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis chapter examines whether comparative mysticism can include non-theistic religions, given that mysticism historically aims at unification with God within theistic contexts. It explores phenomena such as quietism, ekstasis, and contemplation, and considers the relationship between various mystical mental attitudes. The authors propose that mysticism is often linked to an altered state of consciousness, creating a parallel between Abrahamic and Dharmic practices.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Buddhism MDMA Meditation Mysticism |
| Keywords | Jewish mysticism Contemplation Context archaeology Subjectivism |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key finding | Argues that the concept of an altered state of consciousness creates a parallel between Abrahamic and Dharmic mystical practices, enabling comparative mysticism to include non-theistic religions. |
Abstract
AbstractMysticism is mostly employed in the context of theistic religions because historically, mysticism aims at a unification with God. It must be clarified if the project of comparative mysticism that this book suggests can be properly carried out when including non-theistic religions. The chapter examines phenomena such as quietism, ekstasis, and contemplation. Further, the relationship between various mystical mental attitudes will be considered. Mysticism has often been related to an altered state of consciousness, which creates a parallel between Abrahamic and Dharmic practices.