Mystical Tradition: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

By: Luke Timothy Johnson, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Luke Timothy Johnson

Each of the great three Abrahamic religious traditions holds the seeds for deep mystical contemplation. But what do most of us know about these mystics and the tradition they sustained? Explore this spiritual, literary, and intellectual heritage in these great faiths of the West as it unfolds over three millennia with these 36 enlightening, thought-provoking lectures that offer nearly unprecedented access to these seldom-studied traditions. By laying the mystical traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam side by side, Professor Johnson offers a unique opportunity to compare and contrast the many forms of religious experience in the West. Starting with the most ancient texts of the Hebrew Bible, Professor Johnson traces the emergence, growth, and persistence of mystical thought in many countries and in many ages. Bringing together the disciplines of philosophy, history, literature, and religious studies, these lectures offer a nuanced and insightful examination of Western spirituality-one that contributes not only to a fuller understanding of our religious traditions, but to our shared culture and history as well.

As you examine the mystical experience, you'll see how, again and again, Western mystics have sought the answers to a few fundamental questions: What is the nature of reality? What is the relationship between humankind and the divine? Can human beings ever attain full knowledge of creation? What emerges from exploring these potent spiritual and intellectual questions is a picture of Western mysticism as diverse, multifaceted, and ever-developing.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2008 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2008 The Great Courses

Powerful perspective

The course gives a powerful perspective of the three major monotheistic religions. It is very balanced and extremely respectful.
As a member of one of these mystical traditions, it was thrilling to hear about the other traditions, to witness the similarities and differences, but mostly feel great respect to fellow members of mystical traditions. It was also interesting to hear about my own tradition in a broad perspective.

Eye-opener. Have listened multiple times through.

Inspiring and thorough introduction to the Abrahamic faiths and their most significant spiritual ideals. Amazing.

Very Good History of Mystics

This is a thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening survey of the history, development and teachings within the Mystic tradition of these three world religions. I was amazed (enjoyed) the similarity of experience of each faith's mystics as well as each's different perspective on the mystic experience.

This was one of the best descriptions of "Mysticism" from a person who is not a mystic. Dr. Johnson does a good job describing a mystic without rendering his own judgement on mystic. This is someone that I rarely see in the other critiques of mystic. Even some mystic define mysticism to narrowly and if every other mystic has to conform to their image or trod their path. For a non-mystic to give an unbiased and honest characterization is refreshing to me. If all historians and theologians took Dr. Johnson's approach there would be a great understanding and acceptance of mystics and mysticism -- all a lot fewer dead mystics.

I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to know more about mysticism.

informative

this was an informative series of lectures. i was impressed with the scholar who presented this series. i have always grappled with mysticism and this series provided me with enough information and incentives to probe even further into this subject.

Indepth Mysticism

The indepth mystical education I was searching for. I will be reading all the associated readings mentioned by the author. Hus tone was enthusiastic and kept me listening to more lectures. I wish that he had gotten proper pronunciation training for the Islamic section.