Methodologies for the Study of Mysticism

In this episode of The Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast, Earl Fontainelle delves into the complexities of defining "mysticism" and proposes a methodological approach to its study. He introduces two working definitions: Mysticism 1 (M1), the practice of mysticism, and Mysticism 2 (M2), the belief in and traditions surrounding M1. Through the hypothetical examples of Rupert and Steve, Fontainelle illustrates the challenges of accessing and interpreting mystical experiences, emphasizing that mystical literature (M2) is a commentary on, but not the same as, the actual mystical practice (M1). He critiques the tendency to conflate diverse religious experiences under a single category of mysticism, highlighting the Christian overtones inherent in the term and advocating for a case-by-case analysis of mystical materials, paying close attention to the specific traditions and authors. Fontainelle concludes by exploring apophatic literature as a genre that uses contradiction and paradox to hint at ineffable realms, suggesting that it offers a powerful means of expanding our understanding of mystical experiences.