What is Rational Mysticism?
Rational mysticism is a philosophical and spiritual approach to understanding the universe and our place in it. It combines rational thought with spiritual and mystical aspects. Approaches which are not mutually exclusive.
Rational mysticism is a way of looking at life and understanding reality; accepting that there may be unseen forces at work and embracing the mystery of the unknown.
Rational mysticism is based on the idea that there is more to life than what is seen and understood through the physical senses.
While we must use our reason to evaluate events, circumstances and decisions, there is also an underlying, unseen force at work. Rational mysticism seeks to seek out and explore these hidden realms, embracing them as part of a unified and holistic way of understanding reality.
Rational mysticism recognises that there may be a spiritual dimension to the universe, and encourages a deep exploration of one’s inner self.
It believes that spiritual growth is an essential part of understanding and accepting the bigger picture. In this way, it extends beyond the limitations of the material world, and allows us to explore a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the universe.
Rational mysticism emphasises a holistic and interconnected worldview, believing that all things are interconnected and connected to a greater source of knowledge. It accepts that there is mystery and wonder to be found within the universe and that understanding it can bring a more profound understanding of life.
It encourages questioning, discussion and exploration of different ideas, with the view that there is more to life than just the physical world.
Rational mysticism is ultimately a way of exploring the universe, the world and the self. It combines rational thought with an openness to the unseen forces of the universe, encouraging a holistic and interconnected view of reality.
Embracing this approach allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the bigger picture and our place within it.
Who coined the term Rational Mystic?
The term “Rational Mysticism” was first coined by German philosopher and theologian Rudolph Otto in his 1917 work Das Heilige. (The Idea of the Holy).
Rudolph Otto (1869-1937) was a German theologian, philosopher and historiographer. He is best known for his concept of the "numinous", which he first presented in his 1917 book Das Heilige,
This book was the basis for his famous "rational mysticism" which combined rational thought with spiritual and mystical aspects.
He argued that the divine is only comprehensible through the numinous experience and that it is through this experience that one can find true and lasting knowledge.
Otto had a major influence on the development of 20th-century theology, particularly in the study of comparative religion, the anthropology of religion and the philosophy of religion.
He is considered one of the most influential figures in 20th century theology and had a major influence on the development of existentialism.
What did Rudolph Otto teach
Rudolph Otto taught that to understand the divine, one must experience the numinous. The numinous experience is a feeling of awe, mystery and reverence that comes from being conscious of the divine.
This experience can be reached through contemplation, meditative practices and spending time in nature.
Otto's teachings also stressed that reason is necessary to understand the world but must be combined with respect and understanding of the spiritual realm.
He stressed that without the combination of rational thought and spiritual instinct, true knowledge of the divine is impossible.
What does the word numinous mean?
The word "numinous" refers to an experience of awe or mystery when faced with the power of the divine. It is a religious term that denotes a feeling of reverence that can arise from encounters with the divine or spiritual elements of life.
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