in practical terms it can be described as a state in which the external
world synchronizes with the mystic's true nature and purpose.
Mysticism is usually understood in a context, but transcendent
experiences may happen to anyone, regardless of training or inclinations.
Such experiences can occur unbidden and might not be understood. A
momentary unity may be experienced by the artist or athlete as a
perceived interconnection with existence or a loss of self accompanied by
feelings of euphoria, by the scientist as a spontaneous ecstatic inspiration,
by an ordinary individual as a shift in physical reality after experiencing a
temporary unconflicted state of mind, by a prophet as an open channel of
knowledge or even dismissed as psychological disturbances in modern
times. But, the authentic mystic's ultimate goal is a sustained stable state
of full consciousness, wholeness/holiness through self-knowledge. First,
the observer role (Seer, Watcher) must be stabilized before he/she can
return to being, merge with the preexistent field - the Divine, allowing
him/her to fulfill his/her purpose or realize his/her passion. With that in
mind, the word mysticism, is best used to point to conscious and
systematic attempts to gain transcendent insights/experiences through
studies and practice.
