mysticism
UK: ˈmɪstɪsɪzəm | US: ˈmɪstɪsɪzəm
n. A spiritual practice or belief system centered on direct communion with the divine or ultimate reality, often through meditation, intuition, or esoteric rituals.
n. The doctrine that knowledge of truth or God is attained through subjective experience beyond rational understanding.
mysticism = mystic<hidden, spiritual> + ism<doctrine or practice>
- mystic: Derived from Greek mystikos ("secret, hidden"), related to mystēs ("initiate into sacred rites"). Originally tied to ancient mystery religions, it evolved to denote spiritual seekers who transcend ordinary perception.
- ism: A suffix from Greek -ismos, indicating a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy (e.g., Buddhism, realism).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Greek mystikos, reflecting secrecy in religious initiation rituals. By the 17th century, "mysticism" emerged in English to describe practices aiming for direct divine connection, blending the hidden (mystic) with structured belief (-ism). The term captures the tension between ineffable experience and formalized spiritual tradition.
Her poetry reflects a deep engagement with Christian mysticism.
Eastern mysticism often emphasizes meditation and self-realization.
Scholars debate whether mysticism is universal across religions.
His writings blend scientific inquiry with elements of mysticism.
The retreat focused on practical exercises rather than abstract mysticism.