Lectures XVI-XVII, Mysticism
The four-marks definition is the most cited passage in modern study of mysticism.
Read in Books4Free →Mystical Experience
From The Varieties of Religious Experience by William James
James identifies four marks of mystical states - ineffability, noetic quality, transiency, and passivity - and argues they carry authority for the mystic though not for outsiders.
Lecture XVII
Surveys cosmic consciousness, yoga, Sufi, and Christian mystics; notes the monistic and pantheistic tendency of mystical reports.
Read in Books4Free →Lecture XVII conclusion
Three conclusions: mystical states are authoritative for those who have them, no authority on outsiders, but they break the authority of non-mystical rationalism.
Read in Books4Free →Read or Listen to The Varieties of Religious Experience on Books4Free
Every chapter free to read. Free audio narration on the opening chapter. Plus an AI study assistant that knows the book.
Open in Books4Free →