Last week I asked you a question about mysticism, and it wasn’t until after MM was closed that I saw that Robert Mathiesen had responded to my question as well. I would like to thank him for his very thoughtful reply.
Robert, I appreciate your taking the time to write to me. I’ve never heard the terms kataphatic or apophatic, or even thought about these different approaches to mysticism or magic. You’ve given me much to research and meditate on. I’d like to understand the nature of mysticism and magic, their differences and overlaps, so that I can better forge a path for myself that will no doubt include both.
I have a great interest in the Christian mystics (I just ordered two books with the complete writings of Teresa of Avila) and will add the other resources you suggested to my must-read list.
I really enjoy reading the Christian mystics, even though I’m not Christian. I’m attracted in some ways to Christianity, particularly Catholicism and Eastern Orthodox with their rich histories, established traditions, rituals, prayers, etc.. And I’ve noticed that Eastern Orthodox has gained some popularity in the last few years, if the more public conversions of people such as Paul Kingsnorth and Martin Shaw are anything to go by. Sometimes I think it would be easier to follow a mystical path if I were Christian, but as far as I know, they wouldn’t welcome a polytheist.
No matter. I will continue to read and be inspired by the writings of mystics of all faiths. I think we’re all pointed in the same direction anyway. I just have to get over the feeling that I’m playacting Christianity when I borrow concepts and practices from their rich tradition. I’ve realized that the mystical (as well as monastic) life that I long for will need to be somewhat (re)envisioned as I go along. Fortunately, others with similar longings are paving the way with new writings (such as the wonderful little book “Polytheistic Monasticism” in which our esteemed host has an article) and pagan monastic communities popping up here and there. I am grateful for these new paths being forged.
Thank you again for your reply. I always enjoy reading your posts here and on the Ecosophia blog, and I am inspired by the knowledge and wisdom you so generously share. You and JMG are truly gifts in my life.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
branchandroot
(no subject)
Date: 2023-11-27 09:01 am (UTC)Last week I asked you a question about mysticism, and it wasn’t until after MM was closed that I saw that Robert Mathiesen had responded to my question as well. I would like to thank him for his very thoughtful reply.
Robert, I appreciate your taking the time to write to me. I’ve never heard the terms kataphatic or apophatic, or even thought about these different approaches to mysticism or magic. You’ve given me much to research and meditate on. I’d like to understand the nature of mysticism and magic, their differences and overlaps, so that I can better forge a path for myself that will no doubt include both.
I have a great interest in the Christian mystics (I just ordered two books with the complete writings of Teresa of Avila) and will add the other resources you suggested to my must-read list.
I really enjoy reading the Christian mystics, even though I’m not Christian. I’m attracted in some ways to Christianity, particularly Catholicism and Eastern Orthodox with their rich histories, established traditions, rituals, prayers, etc.. And I’ve noticed that Eastern Orthodox has gained some popularity in the last few years, if the more public conversions of people such as Paul Kingsnorth and Martin Shaw are anything to go by. Sometimes I think it would be easier to follow a mystical path if I were Christian, but as far as I know, they wouldn’t welcome a polytheist.
No matter. I will continue to read and be inspired by the writings of mystics of all faiths. I think we’re all pointed in the same direction anyway. I just have to get over the feeling that I’m playacting Christianity when I borrow concepts and practices from their rich tradition. I’ve realized that the mystical (as well as monastic) life that I long for will need to be somewhat (re)envisioned as I go along. Fortunately, others with similar longings are paving the way with new writings (such as the wonderful little book “Polytheistic Monasticism” in which our esteemed host has an article) and pagan monastic communities popping up here and there. I am grateful for these new paths being forged.
Thank you again for your reply. I always enjoy reading your posts here and on the Ecosophia blog, and I am inspired by the knowledge and wisdom you so generously share. You and JMG are truly gifts in my life.
Happy Solstice to you both!