The Tragedy of Elitist Mysticism
There are many preconceptions about the words mystic and magician so it is important that we clarify what these terms mean at the outset. The mystic loves God and is heart-centered. The magician has a curious mind that searches for manifestations of God in earthly life. The magician is head-centered. We are talking about two very different ways of being in the world. Both the mystic and magician seek a connection to God. The difference is the mystic is looking up esoterically while the magician is looking down for evidence of God manifesting on the material plane. Seeking God is innate to both. The word seeking is important because it implies an active, process rather than an absolute state, making mysticism and magic accessible to lay individuals.
The History of Mysticism
Mysticism originated from the study of sacred scriptures. Rituals arose amid secret initiations which frequently included renunciations of materialism, sexual relationships, and the physical body. Aspirants hoped to transcend the mundane world for a greater spiritual reality. Over time, mysticism became associated with the necessity to withdraw from mundane experience. Like-minded individuals formed communities to shut out the world. Mysticism was not an option for the everyday individual outside of sheltered walls.
Mysticism became spiritually elevated, defined in absolute terms of communion with God and enlightenment. It was assumed that only those behind cloistered walls, or those who were professed could have mystical experiences. As mysticism became an elitist concept, it was viewed as an impossibility for a lay person who was overburdened with daily tasks, responsibilities, and families to feed. It was believed that involvement in earthly pursuits would prohibit any mystical experience. Therefore, mysticism was not taught by most religions.
Modern Day Mysticism
Mysticism is still viewed by many as an absolute state of communion with God. It is not taught as a process of seeking a direct connect to God. It is not part of religious education. Awareness of mystical experiences is lacking in the general population.
The Tragedy of Elitist Mysticism
For too long mysticism appeared to be beyond the reach of the general population. The lack of knowledge about mystical experiences is a spiritual tragedy. Spontaneous mystical experiences are more common than one would think, and this creates a problem for the individual who has no context or understanding when one occurs. Mystical experiences tend to be illogical, and the lay individual may have no training in how to interpret the event. Fortunate individuals may find support in a spiritual director, but others might seek help from a psychotherapist who would view such events as hallucinations. This can put a confusing and even dangerous spin on an event meant to be spiritual in nature. No one wants to be thought of as crazy, and the immediate reaction would be to cut off all future events. As consciousness grows in the mundane world, it is important to view mysticism as an evolving process. Everyone should be able to recognize and access their inner mystic. This is how consciousness and humanity can evolve.