Mysticism in Historical Context: A Critical and Analytical Study

Summary

Mysticism, rooted in Eastern traditions like the Upanishads, is understood as a spiritual mode of perception that emphasizes unity and transcendence beyond rational thought. It has historically influenced major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, as well as Western philosophy and literature from Plato to modern thinkers. The challenge of defining mysticism stems from its diffused nature and the focus on intuition over intellect in seeking union with the Supreme Reality.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Although the credit for developing mysticism as a branch of study goes to the Western scholars, it has its earliest roots in Eastern religious traditions, particularly the Upanishads. Because of the diffused nature of mysticism, it has been an arduous task even for the philosophers to define it in precise terms. Yet, for working purpose, mysticism has long been understood less as a doctrine than as a spiritual temper or mode of perception emphasizing unity, intuition, and transcendence beyond rational analysis. Mystics seek the underlying oneness of all existence and aim at union with the Supreme Reality through intuition rather than intellect. Historically, mysticism has shaped major religious traditions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity—and has profoundly influenced Western philosophical and literary thought from Plato and Plotinus to medieval and modern thinkers.

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