The Mystic Heart
Every great religion began with a profound spiritual awakening. This is seen in the experiences of the rishis in India, the Buddha’s enlightenment, Moses and the prophets in the biblical tradition, Jesus’ realization of his relationship with the Father, and the Prophet Mohammed’s revelation of Allah. These awakenings are rooted in mysticism or primary religious experiences.
While religions are essential for carrying traditions within communities, direct contact with the divine or ultimate mystery is even more vital. The spirit must breathe freely, not be confined by rigid structures. However, many religious institutions focus primarily on worship and devotion, neglecting the mystical and contemplative aspects of spirituality.
Spirituality is transformative when it inspires us to surrender to the mystery that encompasses our existence. This inner change, combined with a simplified external life, is crucial for altering our historical trajectory of violence and division. True reform and renewal begin with a change in people’s hearts.
The definitive revolution of our time is the spiritual awakening of humankind. This awakening is the foundation of the Interspiritual Age, which calls for a new approach to spirituality that transcends the fragmentation and isolation of past religious cultures. In this age, all forms of spirituality are accessible, allowing for creative exchange and mutual enrichment among different religious traditions.
We do not need to enter monasteries to cultivate our spirituality; we are all inherently mystics. The mystic heart is the deepest part of our being, waiting to be realized and activated. We need a spirituality that promotes the unity of the human family while respecting our differences. The truth is expansive enough to encompass diverse perspectives, all rooted in authentic inner experiences.
