The term ‘mysticism,’ comes from the Greek μυω, meaning “to conceal.” In the Hellenistic world, ‘mystical’ referred to “secret” religious rituals. In early Christianity the term came to refer to “hidden” allegorical interpretations of Scriptures and to hidden presences, such as that of Jesus at the Eucharist.
Only later did the term begin to denote “mystical theology,” that included direct experience of the divine (See Bouyer, 1981). Typically, mystics, theistic or not, see their mystical experience as part of a larger undertaking aimed at human transformation (See, for example, Teresa of Avila, Life, Chapter 19) and not as the terminus of their efforts. Thus, in general, ‘mysticism’ would best be thought of as a constellation of distinctive practices, discourses, texts, institutions, traditions, and experiences aimed at human transformation, variously defined in different traditions.
So, what's wrong with mysticism? From my personal study, there are a few things wrong with it. First, it is very seductive. It mimics other mystical traditions such as Sufi Islam and Eastern Mysticism like yoga. It promises communion with the divine. It allows for ecumenism between all religions which is part of "the plan". The main thing is that it's the number one way that the Catholic church will evangelize and unite the world. The supposed one world religion will grow under the umbrella of mysticism in all forms. We should commune with God through reading and studying his word. We should contemplate and meditate on the word of God. A mantra, even if it's the name of Jesus, is still a mantra. The goal is to empty your mind and enter "the silence". God wants us to use our minds and learn about him. We should pray intelligently without having to empty our minds to commune with God. However, we do need silence in the sense of turning off all the media and noise of the world and getting our bodies healthy. There is a fine line between true spirituality and the false new spirituality being taught in today's post-modern world. Remember, Satan has a counterfeit for everything, and his counterfeits are VERY good and so close to the real thing that you can hardly tell the difference!
Check out this article about Evangelical Mysticism: Evangelical Mysticism by T. A. McMahon
No comments:
Post a Comment