A theological analysis of R.C. Zaehner\u27s theory of mysticism

R.C. Zaehner theorized that there are three distinct experiences that have been called mystical and that have occurred across and beyond the religious systems of the world. The first, pan-en-henism, involves leaving behind the individual ego and experiencing a powerful intuition of the oneness of everything that exists. The second, the mysticism of isolation, consists of resting in one\u27s individual spirit after a period of ascetic preparation. The third, theistic mysticism, is a loving union between the individual and God. Zaehner argues that the third experience surpasses the other two and is the only one that is a function of divine grace. The dissertation argues that Zaehner\u27s theory offers a persuasive case that there are three distinct families of experiences that have been labeled mystical, but that Zaehner\u27s theological claims are less well grounded. The dissertation proposes the reframing of Zaehner\u27s theory in light of Karl Rahner\u27s theologies of grace and revelation. It argues that the Zaehner-Rahner dialogue will make Zaehner\u27s theory helpful to the work of contemporary theological projects