REFLECTIONS ON THE STUDY OF MYSTICISM AS A CATEGORY

This philosophical paper examines mysticism as the experiential dimension of religion, tracing how the term originated in the West, was adopted by Christianity, and only in the nineteenth century expanded to include encounters with ultimate Reality across religions. The author argues that a comparative category of mysticism has emerged and that studying it raises various questions and perspectives. Although mystical experiences involve states of mind beyond rationality, which fosters skepticism, the author contends this skepticism must be overcome. Given the growing global popularity of mystical practices, the author proposes that comparative and partly direct study of mysticism is both necessary and possible.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Mysticism is an important component of religion, representing its experiential dimension. The term itself is of western origin, adopted by Christianity, evolving over time and extending in meaning only in the nineteenth century to include experiences of encounters with the ultimate nature of Reality in religions. Thus, a category of mysticism has developed, which can be studied in a comparative manner. The study of mysticism has further given rise to various questions related to study of mysticism and various perspectives of dealing with the phenomenon. As mystical experiences are essentially associated with states of mind beyond rationality, there is a general attitude of scepticism connected to study of mysticism. However, this scepticism must be overcome. In the present-day context, when mystical practices are gaining a new level of popularity over the world, it is not only necessary but also quite possible to study mysticism comparatively and to some extent, directly.