History of Mysticism: The Unchanging Testament

by Swami Abhayananda, Abhayananda

A contemporary American mystic and scholar tells the story of man's recurrent experience of enlightenment throughout the ages, and presents in an historical context the lives and words of over 40 famous mystics from both Eastern and Western religious traditions.

Genres: History, Spirituality, Philosophy

432 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1994

Reviews

[Phil Calandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an overview of the concept of mysticism as explained through the experiences of mystics throughout history. In studying the philosophies of these great visionaries, you see a common similarity of experiences containing two distinctive and contradictory aspects. There is a unitive stage of "Consciousness," or "Awareness" which is consistent and unchanging and there is that aspect which is constantly changing. The difficult concept of mysticism is made clearer when you compare and contrast the experiences of these enlightened men. I believe "History of Mysticism." would serve as an excellent resource book which I would highly recommend.

[Perennialist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome tracing of the common elements of the practical experience of the approach of human consciousness towards the central Consciousness, traversing all human history and centralizing the features of the experience. Unfortunately mildly to moderately misogynistic and biased towards male figures. I think the concepts repeated here on the structure of the mystical experience bridge nicely to scientific speculation on the fundamental importance of consciousness to quantum mechanics, the interchangeability of mind and matter, Laszlow’s akashic field, and practical magic. But it keeps the valuable priority on the centrality of love in the pursuit of heightening consciousness.

[Larry Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

History of Mysticism by Swami Abhayananda is a survey of the major mystical traditions and their understandings of God. The author identifies two consistent themes, which correspond to Ramakrishna’s notions of “God with name and form” (a personal god) and “God without name and form” (an impersonal or transpersonal god).

[Einar Magnússon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An accessible and informative overview of the history of mysticism. He´ll take one historical character who´s writing he defines as mystical at a time to talk about. Also the book can be considered an argument for some mystic idealism. An amazing book.

[Aleta · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book that, although not its intention, made me want to go on a serious seek for Truth, which ultimately lead me to A Course in Miracles. I recommend this book for anyone who has an interest in seeking Truth and returning Home.

[Dide · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a really good book, required my being in a perceptive state of mind to absorb its content.