What does mysticism mean?
Mysticism names the pursuit of direct spiritual insight or union with the divine, usually through contemplative practices, revelation, or personal experience rather than rational argument alone. It can refer to a body of teachings, as in Christian or Jewish mysticism, and to the wider tendency to treat reality as possessing a hidden spiritual dimension. The word also carries the more figurative sense of something being mysterious or beyond ordinary understanding. In ordinary discussion it often suggests a mode of knowledge opposed to reason or evidence, so its tone can range from respectful, especially in religious history and philosophy, to skeptical or pejorative when used of alleged irrational beliefs. Mysticism is related to but not identical with occultism, which more specifically concerns hidden or esoteric knowledge, and mystique, which usually describes an elusive, compelling quality rather than a tradition of spiritual practice. Recognising these distinctions helps when the word appears in discussions of religion, art, philosophy, and cultural history.
A body of beliefs or practices aimed at achieving direct spiritual insight, unity with the divine, or knowledge of ultimate reality, especially through contemplation or personal experience.
"Her research focuses on the influence of mysticism on medieval European poetry."
The word is usually used as an uncountable noun when referring to the practice or tradition as a whole.
The quality of being mysterious, spiritual, or beyond ordinary understanding.
"The remote island retains a deep sense of mysticism."
The plural is standard but uncommon; singular mass use is normally preferred when discussing spiritual practice or tradition generally.
"The scholar compares theologies and mysticisms across several religious traditions."
From the Greek idea of a secret or hidden thing to humanity's enduring search for the divine, mysticism has long made the invisible feel close at hand.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mysticism come from?
Mysticism was formed in English in the early 17th century from mystic and the suffix -ism. Both elements continue a Greek and Latin word tradition based on mysterion, meaning a secret or hidden thing, while mystic entered English through French and Latin. The modern noun developed within discussions of religious mysteries, spiritual practice, and direct experience of the divine.
How mysticism is actually used
Mysticism is generally neutral or formal in religious studies, philosophy, and cultural history. It can sound skeptical or dismissive when applied to beliefs regarded as irrational, and it usually denotes spiritual practice or tradition rather than secrecy itself.
Easily confused with mysticism
Mysticism denotes spiritual practices or traditions, whereas mystique usually means an elusive quality of fascination or mystery surrounding a person, place, or idea.
Occultism more specifically concerns hidden or esoteric knowledge and practices, while mysticism centres on spiritual experience or insight into ultimate reality.