Mysticism, Buddhist and Christian

Mysticism, Buddhist and Christian

By Paul Mommaers

Book Description

This profound exploration bridges two of the world's great spiritual traditions through the lens of medieval Christian mystic Jan van Ruusbroec, whose teachings offer surprising parallels to Buddhist contemplative practice. Paul Mommaers, a distinguished Flemish historian, presents the first comprehensive English-language study of Ruusbroec's mystical writings, revealing how this 14th-century master navigated the delicate balance between personal religious devotion and transcendent spiritual union.

The book examines two fundamental tensions that shape mystical experience: the relationship between formal religious practice and direct spiritual encounter, and the distinction between love-centered mysticism and more abstract metaphysical approaches to divine unity. Through careful analysis of Ruusbroec's original texts, readers discover how this medieval Christian teacher developed insights that resonate across religious boundaries.

Theologian Jan Van Bragt provides illuminating commentary that places these Christian mystical teachings within a broader interfaith context, drawing thoughtful comparisons with Buddhist spiritual paths. This dual perspective reveals unexpected common ground between traditions often viewed as fundamentally different, suggesting new possibilities for understanding how diverse contemplative practices can lead to similar spiritual realizations.

Rather than emphasizing differences between Eastern and Western approaches to the sacred, this scholarly yet accessible work demonstrates how authentic mystical insight transcends cultural and religious boundaries, offering contemporary seekers fresh perspectives on the universal human quest for spiritual transformation and divine connection.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~8 hours)

🕉️ Tradition: Buddhism

📄 Length: 302 pages

What You'll Discover

  • ✓ Explore mystical experiences
  • ✓ Explore Christianity and other religions
  • ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
  • ✓ Explore Medieval civilization
  • ✓ Explore Christianity and other religions, buddhism
  • ✓ Explore Mysticism, buddhism
  • ✓ Explore Buddhism
  • ✓ Explore Relations

Topics Covered

Mysticism Christianity and other religions Buddhism, relations, christianity Medieval civilization Christianity and other religions, buddhism Mysticism, buddhism Buddhism Relations Christianity Mysticism, middle ages, 600-1500 History

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