title: Being one with the spirit: dimensions of a mystical experience.
abstract: Mystical experience has intrigued both religious and non-religious persons for centuries. Several elements of mystical experience have been identified by scholars of the psychology of religion. This essay explores those critical elements and appropriates them in developing a theological anthropology. This understanding is expanded using the framework of the mystic, Howard Thurman, who argued that true mysticism leads to responsible action. Together these components form the basis for a pastoral theological framework for mystical experience.
authors.forename: Xolani
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Kacela
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009228:Mysticism; D014481:United States