Christian Mysticism (undergraduate)

Spiritus: A Journal of Christian Spirituality, 2014

Medieval mystical theology, 2017

The Journal of Ecclesiastical History, 2013

Encyclopedia of Psychology and Religion, 2022

Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences, 2014

Mediterranean journal of social sciences, 2014

GORGIAS PRESS, 2019

In early Christianity the term mystikos referred to three dimensions, namely biblical, liturgical and spiritual or contemplative. At times these dimensions intertwined. The biblical aspect refers to “hidden meanings” of Scriptures, those that had to be interpreted allegorically. The liturgical dimension refers to the mystery of the Eucharist, the presence of Christ at the consecrated bread. The third aspect is the contemplative or experiential knowledge of God. The link between mystical theology and the vision of the Divine was introduced by the early Church Fathers, who used the term as an adjective, as in “mystical theology” and “mystical contemplation.” Early Christian thought inherited this tradition from the classical culture, especially from Plato and Plotinus. Hence, the term “Mystical Theology,” in its most general application designates a direct and immediate experience of the sacred, or the knowledge derived from such an experience. In Christianity this experience usually takes the form of a vision of, or sense of union with, God. Mystical Theology is usually accompanied by meditation, prayer, and ascetic discipline. It uncovers an understanding of the inner integrity of mystical consciousness and highlights the difference between knowledge through direct experience and theological expression.

Daniel King (ed.), The Syriac World, Routledge, 2019

Journal of Psychology Research, 2012