Mysticism: Its History and Challenge »

Examines concepts from world religions and explains Christian mystics in history, in perspective, and through art. Includes discussion of modern explorations of mysticism conducted by psychologists like Jung and Maslow.

Publishers Weekly

Bruno Borchert's is a readable classic, as well as a reference for home, public and academic libraries. Beefy in size and nourishing to boot, it is hard to imagine a less stuffy, more complete compendium. In Part I, ``The Phenomenon of Mysticism,'' Borchert compares being in love to mystical experience. Part II, ``The History of Mysticism,'' covers the East; Iran; Israel; the Hellenistic world; a feminist worldview; God as Lover and Beloved; the mystical retreat; and more. Part III, ``The Mystical Way,'' shines a light on contemporary paths, concluding simply and profoundly with two poems. Copious, eclectic illustrations and satisfying appendices (i.e., ``Mapping Mystical Influences,'' ``Timeliness,'' ``A Glossary of Mystics,'' etc.), bibliography and indices put the final shine on this star. Illustrations. (Apr.)