mysticism

[ mis-tuh-siz-uh m ]
/ ˈmɪs təˌsɪz əm /

noun

the beliefs, ideas, or mode of thought of mystics.
a doctrine of an immediate spiritual intuition of truths believed to transcend ordinary understanding, or of a direct, intimate union of the soul with God through contemplation or ecstasy.
obscure thought or speculation.

Origin of mysticism

First recorded in 1730–40; mystic + -ism

OTHER WORDS FROM mysticism

an·ti·mys·ti·cism, noun non·mys·ti·cism, noun

Example sentences from the Web for mysticism

British Dictionary definitions for mysticism

mysticism
/ (ˈmɪstɪˌsɪzəm) /

noun

belief in or experience of a reality surpassing normal human understanding or experience, esp a reality perceived as essential to the nature of life
a system of contemplative prayer and spirituality aimed at achieving direct intuitive experience of the divine
obscure or confused belief or thought

Cultural definitions for mysticism

mysticism

In religion, the attempt by an individual to achieve a personal union with God or with some other divine being or principle. Mystics generally practice daily meditation.