1.4.2 mysticism

Today I will discuss the fundamental qualities of a mystic. A mystical experience is one in which there is some degree of revelation or expression of the subtle qualities of the Supreme Brahma. There are so many different experiences which have been given to human beings. But mystical experiences are of a particular type and come to certain categories of people. Now it can be said that Mysticism is available to each and every person who possesses a human framework. But the fact is that most people do not pursue this Mysticism, this experience of the Supreme and therefore these experiences are limited in the lives of the majority of human beings.

You see, there must be certain characteristics in a person for such experiences to flourish. One who would see the Grandeur of that Supreme Entity, who would look upon His qualities, His aspects with unclouded eyes, one who would behold His effulgence, such a one must realize their unity with Him. You see, if the mind searches for this or that object to fulfill this or that desire, these passions fill up the psyche and there is a little room for Mysticism. But when a human being becomes enarmored, fascinated with a particular aspect of the Supreme, then his ideation, his attraction draws to him the experience of that Entity, be he Indian, American, Russian or rich, poor, white, colored or female. It makes no difference. All these outer characteristics are of no significance in this field of Mysticism. They are simply incidental aspects of one's birth. If a person is Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jain, or Buddhist, again it does not matter. Mysticism transcends belief. It is a direct exploration, a direct intuitional communion with that Supreme Entity. Be the person a boy of ten or an old man, a wise and scholarly individual with vast spiritual study or a simple laborer, in the field of Mysticism all are of an equal standing. One may be very learned, having studied religious texts, having searched and made proper rites, proper rituals, another may be simple and uneducated or ignorant of scriptures, yet both may be Mystics.

A Mystic is not made through outer experience. Even study and religious life do not make a Mystic. A Mystic is born from within. From the depths of the Self comes the yearning 'Who am I, what am I beyond this ordinary life of mine? Why am I?' These questions are the foundation of Mysticism. It is from the core of the human heart that the science of Mysticism unfolds and the soul transcends its boundaries and experiences the qualities and characteristics of the Infinite.

So if you want to be a Mystic, to experience the Supreme, develop within yourself a searching mind and longing for your Supreme Lord. Do those things which enhance this longing and the revelations which dispel darkness and satisfy both heart and mind are bound to come to you in this very life. So become a Mystic, not by external means but within your heart, and follow those practices which assist you to unravel the threads of ignorance. Be great oh human being! Divinity is within your grasp.