Scharfstein on Mystical Experience
"Mystical Experience" by Ben-Ami Scharfstein is a thought-provoking exploration of mysticism that seeks to broaden its traditional boundaries. Published in 1973, the book challenges the conventional view of mystical experiences as solely religious or spiritual phenomena tied to specific traditions. Scharfstein argues that mysticism extends beyond these confines, encompassing creative endeavors in art, science, and philosophy. He suggests that any pursuit of harmony with oneself and the world—whether by a mystic, artist, or scientist—can be seen as a mystical experience, driven by a deep, often inexpressible longing for unity and understanding.
In the book, Scharfstein draws on a wide range of examples to illustrate his thesis, pulling from both Eastern and Western traditions. He references the writings of well-known mystics alongside the lives and works of figures like Sartre and Einstein, showing how their intellectual and creative efforts mirror mystical quests. This comparative approach highlights the universality of the mystical impulse, suggesting that it manifests in diverse forms across cultures and disciplines. By doing so, Scharfstein bridges the gap between seemingly disparate fields, proposing that the search for transcendent meaning is a fundamental human trait.
Scharfstein also delves into the psychological and perceptual aspects of mystical experiences, examining how they arise and how they are interpreted. He explores techniques like meditation and contemplation, as well as spontaneous moments of insight, drawing parallels between these and the creative process. The book posits that mystical experiences often defy verbal explanation, aligning them with the ineffable nature of artistic or scientific breakthroughs. This perspective invites readers to reconsider the boundaries between rational thought and intuitive revelation, framing mysticism as a dynamic interplay of both.
Ultimately, "Mystical Experience" is a synthesis of philosophy, psychology, and cultural analysis, offering a fresh (for the time) lens on a timeless subject. Scharfstein’s accessible yet profound narrative encourages readers to see mysticism not as an esoteric rarity but as a pervasive element of human experience. While grounded in scholarly insight, the book remains engaging for a general audience, urging a reevaluation of how we define and encounter the mystical in our lives. Through this expansive view, Scharfstein underscores the interconnectedness of human creativity, thought, and the pursuit of something greater than ourselves.
My copy of this book was probably purchased shortly after the book came out, which makes it about 50 years old 🤯. Flipping through it, I can recollect the effect it had on me in my late teens (ex nihilo nihil fit), especially the chapter Logical and Metaphysical Defenses of Mysticism which I might cover in a separate post.
