Practical Mysticism · Chapter
X: The Mystical Life explained
This chapter describes the mystical life as an active, transformative union with Reality, where contemplation and action are interdependent.
What happens
This chapter describes the mystical life as an active, transformative union with Reality, where contemplation and action are interdependent. The mystic becomes a tool for the Supreme Artist, contributing to the creative act of the universe. The practical man's question about utility is addressed, emphasizing that this path leads to a profound personal transformation and a harmonious will with the Whole, even amidst suffering and darkness.
Themes in this chapter
Union with Reality
The chapter defines the mystical life as actualizing union with Reality through active participation in the divine creative act.
Contemplation and Action
Emphasizes that contemplation and action are not opposites but interdependent forms of a unified life, leading to transformation and service.
Transformation and Growth
Describes the 'new man' born from the transforming union, where the whole personality is transmuted into an active servant of the Eternal Wisdom.
Characters to notice
- The Practical Man
Reappears to question the utility of the mystical life, representing the skeptical, pragmatic viewpoint.
- Dante Alighieri
Referenced in the final paragraph, his vision of the blessed ones illustrates the ultimate harmony of the soul with the Enkindling Light.
Key passages
“It is in action, then, that these find their truest and safest point of insertion into the living, active world of Reality: in sharing and furthering its work of manifestation they know its secrets best.”
True knowledge of Reality comes through active participation in its ongoing creation, not through passive observation.
Highlights the integration of contemplation and action as central to the mystical life.
“You are to be a living, ardent tool with which the Supreme Artist works: one of the instruments of His self-manifestation, the perpetual process by which His Reality is brought into concrete expression.”
The mystic becomes an active instrument through which the divine reality is expressed in the world.
Emphasizes the role of the mystic as a co-creator with the divine.
“Living in this atmosphere of Reality, you will, in fact, yourself become more real.”
By immersing yourself in the true nature of existence, you will undergo a transformation that makes you more authentic and substantial.
Describes the transformative effect of mystical practice on the individual.