Definition

Noun: - A religion based on mystical communion with an ultimate reality: This term refers to a form of religious belief and practice centered on the pursuit of direct, personal, and often ineffable union or communion with a divine or ultimate reality, transcending ordinary human experience and intellectual understanding.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The poet's work was deeply influenced by a form of religious mysticism that sought unity with the divine through contemplation.
  • Some traditions within the major world faiths are characterized by religious mysticism, emphasizing inner spiritual experience over ritual.

Advanced Usage

• As a conceptual framework: The term can be used to analyze and categorize specific strands of thought within broader religious traditions.
  • Scholars often study Christian religious mysticism by examining the writings of medieval contemplatives.

Variants and Related Words

• Mysticism (n): The broader practice and experience of seeking union with the divine or ultimate truth, which can exist within or outside formal religious structures.
  • His philosophy bordered on mysticism rather than organized religion.
• Mystic (n/adj): (n) A person who practices or believes in mysticism. (adj) Relating to mysticism.
  • The mystic spent hours in silent prayer.

Synonyms

• Spiritualism: A system of belief or practice based on supposed communication with the spirits of the dead, which can overlap with but is not identical to mysticism focused on an ultimate reality.
• Contemplative Religion: A religion or religious practice emphasizing deep, reflective meditation on spiritual subjects.

Related Phrases

• Mystical experience: A personal event involving a sense of direct contact with a divine reality, which is the core of religious mysticism.
  • Her writings describe a profound mystical experience that changed her life.
• Mystical theology: The branch of theology that deals with the study of mystical experiences and doctrines.
  • He specialized in the mystical theology of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Noun

1. a religion based on mystical communion with an ultimate reality