Mysticism: a guide for the perplexed

Description

The concept of mysticism -- Approaches used by mystics -- Lifestyles of mystics -- Buddhist mysticism -- Sufism -- The nature mysticism of Taoism and Shinto -- Christian mysticism -- Kabbalah -- Hindu mysticism -- Sikh and Jain mysticism -- The mystical goal -- Mystical and orthodox traditions.;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 will enable 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.