Mysticism: A Guide for the Perplexed
A Guide for the Perplexed
1st Edition
Published on 1. September 2009
176 pages
978-1-4411-6667-8 (ISBN)
Description
Mysticism is one of the most enduring and fascinating aspects of religious life, and one of the most difficult to unpick. It has, over the centuries, inspired many of the leading figures in different faiths to seek a sense of union with God or with the spiritual forces in the universe, and is increasingly part of the spiritual mainstream.
Designed for students grappling with this complicated area, this book enables readers to understand the nature of mysticism, and to examine in detail the traditional methods used by mystics in seeking an intimate understanding of the spiritual world. Including a detailed survey of mystical trends within all the main world religions, and case studies of the lives of important mystics, Mysticism: A Guide for the Perplexed also examines the nature of the mystical lifestyle, and the extent to which ordinary people can develop a sense of personal mysticism.
Designed for students grappling with this complicated area, this book enables readers to understand the nature of mysticism, and to examine in detail the traditional methods used by mystics in seeking an intimate understanding of the spiritual world. Including a detailed survey of mystical trends within all the main world religions, and case studies of the lives of important mystics, Mysticism: A Guide for the Perplexed also examines the nature of the mystical lifestyle, and the extent to which ordinary people can develop a sense of personal mysticism.
Reviews / Votes
'The richness of this book will enhance and deepen the openness to faith of any reader and provide a good introduction to what at first can be a perplexing subject.' Offers a clear and organized understanding of a path to a deeper life for readers to consider.More details
Series
Edition
1. Auflage
Language
English
Place of publication
New York
United States
ISBN-13
978-1-4411-6667-8 (9781441166678)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
Book
09/2009
Continuum International Publishing Group Ltd.
€33.40
Shipment within 15-20 days
Person
Dr Paul Oliver was formerly a lecturer at the University of Huddersfield, UK. He has published twenty books in the areas of religion, education and philosophy, seven of which have been translated into other languages.
Content
Introduction
Part I : What is Mysticism?
1. The Concept of Mysticism
2. Approaches Used by Mystics
3. Life Styles of Mystics
Part II : The Traditions of Mysticism
4. Buddhist Mysticism
5. Sufism
6. The Nature Mysticism of Taoism and Shinto
7. Christian Mysticism
8. Kabbalah
9. Hindu Mysticism
10. Sikh and Jain Mysticism.
Part III: The Purpose of Mysticism
11. The Mystical Goal
12. Mystical and Orthodox Traditions
Glossary
Bibliography
Index
Part I : What is Mysticism?
1. The Concept of Mysticism
2. Approaches Used by Mystics
3. Life Styles of Mystics
Part II : The Traditions of Mysticism
4. Buddhist Mysticism
5. Sufism
6. The Nature Mysticism of Taoism and Shinto
7. Christian Mysticism
8. Kabbalah
9. Hindu Mysticism
10. Sikh and Jain Mysticism.
Part III: The Purpose of Mysticism
11. The Mystical Goal
12. Mystical and Orthodox Traditions
Glossary
Bibliography
Index
