A Bridge Between Traditional and Modern

Analysis of the characteristics of mystical experiences

Authors

  • Zsuzsanna Szugyiczki University of Szeged, Department of Religious Studies

Abstract

The paper aims to explore four sets of characteristics of mystical experiences through the Alister Hardy RERC Archive Database: opposites; time; depth and perception; bodily reactions, actions, and feelings. Firstly, words of opposite meanings, showcasing the perceived uniqueness and ineffability of mystical states. Secondly, expressions that point to shifts in temporal perception. Thirdly, the language that reflects altered perceptions and the profound impact these experiences have on individuals. Fourthly, immediately occurring feelings, uncontrollable bodily reactions, and actions that are associated with the intensity of the experience. Furthermore, it is assumed that these characteristics are present not only in traditional examples but in modern mysticism as well.

Author Biography

Zsuzsanna Szugyiczki, University of Szeged, Department of Religious Studies

Zsuzsanna Szugyiczki is an Assistant Professor, and non-formal educational trainer at the University of Szeged, Hungary. Her main area of research is mysticism in modernity. In 2023 she defended her doctoral dissertation titled: Mysticism beyond time: A comparative study of Traditional vs. modern mysticism.

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Published

2025-07-09

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 1 (2025): Special 10th anniversary issue

Section

Articles

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