Hindu Mysticism...

Hinduism has perhaps the oldest tradition of mysticism.

In Hindu philosophy, and particularly in the metaphysical system known as the Vedanta, the self or atman in a person is identified with the supreme self, or Brahman, of the universe.

The apparent separateness and individuality of beings and events are held to be an illusion (Sanskrit maya), or convention of thought and feeling.

This illusion can be dispelled through the realization of the essential oneness of atman and Brahman.

When the religious initiate has overcome the beginningless ignorance (Sanskrit avidya) upon which depends the apparent separability of subject and object, of self and not-self, a mystical state of liberation, or moksha, is attained.

The Hindu philosophy of Yoga incorporates perhaps the most complete and rigorous discipline ever designed to transcend the sense of personal identity and to clear the way for an experience of union with the divine self.

Mysticism has traditionally been the province of the sadhus, who sometimes go to extremes of asceticism in the course of their devotions, for example by standing for years on one leg or eschewing clothing.

Such pursuits are held to be a necessary corollary of the spiritual struggle to achieve mystic liberation..



"Mysticism," Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2008