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For the Platonic or Aristotelian philosophy, it is of no…

“For the Platonic or Aristotelian philosophy, it is of no importance whether Plato or Aristotle ever lived. For the mystical practice of an Indian, Persian, Chinese, or Neo-Platonic mystic it is a matter of indifference whether Rama, Buddha, Laotse, or Porphyrius are myths or not. The mystic has no…” quote by Emil Brunner
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“For the Platonic or Aristotelian philosophy, it is of no importance whether Plato or Aristotle ever lived. For the mystical practice of an Indian, Persian, Chinese, or Neo-Platonic mystic it is a matter of indifference whether Rama, Buddha, Laotse, or Porphyrius are myths or not. The mystic has no personal relation to them. It is not here a question of somebody telling me the truth which of myself I cannot find, but of my finding an access to the depths of the world in the depths of my soul.”

Emil Brunner

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Mystics focus on inner experience rather than historical facts about figures; myths become irrelevant when seeking personal insight.

In simple terms: Mystics care about inner truth, not historic facts.

Key Takeaway

Seek personal insight over external validation.

Themes

mysticism philosophy inner truth

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal meditation
  • spiritual study
  • cross‑cultural mysticism

Key Concepts

subjective experience myth versus reality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner truths can you access without relying on external narratives?
  • How do myths shape personal spirituality?
A Different Perspective

Historical accuracy may still matter to some scholars.

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