Those who are interested in that special attitude towards the universe which is now loosely called "mystical," find themselves beset by a multitude of persons who are constantly asking--some with real fervour, some with curiosity, and some with disdain--"What is mysticism?" When referred to the writings of the mystics themselves, and to other works in which this question appears to be answered, these people reply that such books are wholly incomprehensible to them.On the other hand, the genuine inquirer will find before long a number of self-appointed apostles who are eager to answer his question in many strange and inconsistent ways, calculated to increase rather than resolve the obscurity of his mind. He will learn that mysticism is a philosophy, an illusion, a kind of religion, a disease; that it means having visions, performing conjuring tricks, leading an idle, dreamy, and selfish life, neglecting ones business, wallowing in vague spiritual emotions, and being "in tune with the infinite." He will discover that it emancipates him from all dogmas--sometimes from all morality--and at the same time that it is very superstitious. One expert tells him that it is simply "Catholic piety," another that Walt Whitman was a typical mystic; a third assures him that all mysticism comes from the East, and supports his statement by an appeal to the mango trick. At the end of a prolonged course of lectures, sermons, tea-parties, and talks with earnest persons, the inquirer is still heard saying--too often in tones of exasperation--"What is mysticism?"
La experiencia mística suele presentarse como una vivencia intensa que implica la unificación personal con la Realidad divina o última. Pero, aunque en este sentido «sólo los místicos pueden hablar y
Evelyn Underhill, en Misticismo, ofrece una exploración exhaustiva y perspicaz del fenómeno místico como un aspecto esencial de la experiencia humana. Este libro, escrito con un estilo elegante y reflexivo, es un testimonio de la erudicion de Underhill y su profundo interes por el misticismo como un proceso psicologico y espiritual. A traves de las paginas, Underhill desglosa las etapas del camino mistico, desde el despertar hasta la union final, enriqueciendo su analisis con ejemplos de figuras misticas de diversas tradiciones y epocas. La obra destaca por su capacidad de unir de manera convincente la teoria con la experiencia mistica practica, lo que la convierte en una valiosa fuente de estudio tanto para academicos como para practicantes espirituales. Evelyn Underhill fue una investigadora y escritora britanica que dedico gran parte de su vida a estudiar la espiritualidad y el misticismo. Nacida en 1875, Underhill experimento una transformacion espiritual que la llevo a profundizar en el estudio de los escritos misticos. Su enfoque academico, combinado con su propia busqueda espiritual, le permitio acercarse al tema con una autenticidad poco comun. Su extensa lectura y su capacidad para sintetizar informacion compleja en ideas accesibles fueron cruciales para el desarrollo de Misticismo, reflejando tanto su erudicion como su pasion por comprender lo divino en terminos humanos. Recomiendo Misticismo a todo lector que desee profundizar en las complejidades de la experiencia mistica desde una perspectiva rigurosa pero accesible. Underhill habilidosamente vuelve tangible el inefable mundo del misticismo, presentandolo no solo como una idea abstracta, sino como una realidad accesible para quienes buscan el crecimiento espiritual. Su habilidad para ilustrar conceptos densos de manera comprensible hace que esta obra sea especialmente valiosa para estudiantes de teologia, espiritualidad, y psicologia religiosas. Misticismo es, sin duda, un clasico imprescindible para cualquier biblioteca dedicada al estudio serio del fenomeno mistico.
Evelyn Underhills "MYSTICISM (Complete Edition)" serves as a profound exploration into the intricacies of mystical experience and its significance within the spiritual journey. Blending a rich tapestry of philosophy, theology, and psychology, Underhill employs an elegant literary style that weaves historical context with personal insights. The work meticulously examines various mystical traditions, providing an accessible yet comprehensive overview of their practices and underlying principles. Through her systematic analysis, she elevates mysticism from a peripheral component of religious experience to a central pillar of spiritual understanding, firmly situating her discussion within both Western and Eastern perspectives. Evelyn Underhill was a pioneering figure in the study of mysticism, a fact that deeply informs her authoritative voice in this text. Born in 1875, she was a novelist, poet, and passionate scholar of religion, who engaged with not only Christian mystics but also Sufism and the philosophies of the East. Her personal contemplative practices and scholarly pursuits coalesce in this seminal work, reflecting her pursuit of a unifying thread among diverse spiritual traditions. "MYSTICISM (Complete Edition)" is highly recommended for scholars, practitioners, and seekers alike, as it invites readers to deepen their understanding of mystical phenomena and encourages a reflective engagement with the divine. Underhills insights illuminate the transformative potential of mysticism, making it an essential addition to any spiritual library.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
In "Mysticism," Evelyn Underhill explores the profound and often elusive realms of mystical experience, weaving an intricate tapestry of historical context, personal insight, and spiritual inquiry. Underhills literary style is both eloquent and scholarly, drawing on a plethora of religious texts, philosophical works, and her own contemplative practices. She situates her analysis within the broader traditions of Christian mysticism while deftly including insights from various faiths, making this treatise both a historical overview and an invitation to deeper exploration of the divine. Evelyn Underhill (1875-1941) was a distinguished English writer and theologian, known for her deep commitment to spirituality and her extensive knowledge of mysticism. Her own experiences and studies in various mystical traditions have profoundly informed her writing. Underhills background as a convert to Anglicanism and her engagement with diverse religious practices positioned her uniquely to articulate the nuances and shared threads of mystical thought across cultures. Readers seeking a thoughtful and scholarly examination of mystical traditions will find Underhills "Mysticism" an invaluable resource. This work not only illuminates the nature of mystical experiences but also invites readers to embark on their own spiritual journeys, making it essential reading for anyone interested in spirituality, theology, or the intersection of faith and experience.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.