Let it be stated clearly that mysticism is an a-rational…
““Let it be stated clearly that mysticism is an a-rational type of experience, and in some degree common to all men. It is an intuitive, self-evident, self-recognized knowledge which comes fitfully to man. It should not be confounded with the instinctive and immediate knowledge possessed by animals and used by them in their adaptations to environment. The average man seldom pays enough attention to his slight mystical experiences to profit or learn from them. Yet his need for them is evidenced by his incessant seeking for the thrills, sensations, uplifts, and so on, which he organizes for himself in so many ways--the religious way being only one of them. In fact, the failure of religion--in the West, at any rate--to teach true mysticism, and its overlaying of the deeply mystic nature of its teachings with a pseudo-rationalism and an unsound historicity may be the root cause for driving people to seek for things greater than they feel their individual selves to be in the many sensation-giving activities in the world today.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Mystical experiences are intuitive insights beyond rational thought, distinct from animal instincts, yet often ignored despite their value.
In simple terms: Mystical insights are intuitive, not rational, and often overlooked.
Key Takeaway
Pay attention to subtle intuitive moments.
Themes
mysticism
intuition
knowledge
Mood
reflective
curious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- creative problem solving
- artistic inspiration
- personal growth
- stress relief
Key Concepts
epistemology
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- What everyday moments might be subtle mystical insights?
- How can you differentiate genuine intuition from wishful thinking?
A Different Perspective
Mysticism can be vague and hard to verify, risking misuse.