This first part offered a brief insight into the world of mysticism.
I attempted to introduce the topic by comparing mysticism with a truth-oriented faith practice - such as is more common in Western cultural contexts.
An Experiential Approach to Mysticism
I also looked at the commonalities found in the experiences of Christian and Buddhist mystics.
By examining human experiences, religious concepts became more tangible and filled with life.
This approach makes it possible to better categorizing the effects of various spiritual practices from different traditions.
Buddha's experience from a Christian perspective
Sun Myung Moon’s perspective on Buddha’s enlightenment allows us to understand his experience and teaching more deeply from a Christian point of view.
This makes it easier for people with a Christian orientation to learn from Buddhist practice, which offers precise and practical guidance on the path of meditation and contemplation.
Accessing the experiences of other religions
Those who are familiar with the relatively young teachings of Sun Myung Moon can gain access to the centuries-old experiences gathered within other religions.
Some terms from his teachings have so far received little attention in lectures on the Divine Principle, yet they are of central importance for the practical mystical path.
Contribution to interreligious understanding
By linking with familiar concepts from mystical traditions - such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christian mysticism - it becomes possible to connect teachings and learn from one another.
This opens a door to a deeper interreligious understanding.
The necessity of personal experiences
Ultimately, mysticism can only be truly understood once we have had our own spiritual experiences and moments of enlightenment.
However, for that to happen, we need a concrete and practical path to guide us there.
Advancement of mystical understanding and practice
Not least, the providence of God continually progresses.
Sun Myung Moon's revelations and teachings - which we can understand as a major update of Christian teachings - must also lead to an update of mystical understanding and practice.
Outlook on Part 2
The following chapter will clarify what mystical experiences are.
Additionally, based on my own experiences, I will outline the process on the path of prayer towards becoming one with God, as indicated to me by God through my experiences.
The subsequent chapter will be about the practice of meditation and prayer.
Part 2: The Path of Prayer – Phases and Phenomena