Mysticism In the Daode Jing
Gary D. DeAngelis, Warren G. Frisina
Oxford University Press eBooks May 1, 2008 DOI: 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195332704.003.0006 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis essay outlines how Gary D. DeAngelis uses the Daodejing (DDJ) in a course on comparative mysticisms. Students begin with Ninian Smart's definition of mystical experience as a state of consciousness where one acquires fundamental insight into the nature of reality. DeAngelis then guides discussion of how the DDJ addresses two questions: the nature of ultimate reality and how one may experience that reality. These questions lead students to explore epistemological issues, particularly what the DDJ means by claiming it is possible to "know" a Dao that is itself "unknowable."
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Mysticism |
| Keywords | Philosophy Art Literature |
| Key finding | Proposes that using the Daodejing in a comparative mysticism course allows students to explore epistemological issues around knowing an unknowable ultimate reality. |
Abstract
Abstract This essay outlines the way Gary D. DeAngelis employs the DDJ in a course on comparative mysticisms. Beginning with Ninian Smart's definition of mystical experience as a “state of consciousness where one ‘acquires a fundamental insight into the nature of reality,'” DeAngelis leads students into a discussion of how the DDJ responds to two basic questions: “What is the nature of ultimate reality?; and How may one experience that reality?” These questions lead students to explore basic epistemological issues as they come to a deeper understanding of what the DDJ may mean by saying that it is possible to “know” a Dao which is itself “unknowable.”