The sense of mystical experience according to Gerda Walther

Angela Ales Bello

pp. 135-147

in: Antonio Calcagno (ed), Gerda Walther's phenomenology of sociality, psychology, and religion, Berlin, Springer, 2018

Abstract

Interest in mysticism is present in the writings of the Phenomenological School of Philosophy, which was founded by Edmund Husserl. Edith Stein and Gerda Walther, for example, are phenomenologists who investigate mysticism. The former is better known for this kind of investigation, but it should be remarked that the only book dedicated to the topic was written by the latter. Walther connects mysticism with telepathy, but she also distinguishes the objects of the two experiences. In mysticism Walther claims that the object of investigation is the exceptional and direct encounter with God. To describe this encounter, Walther, like Stein, examines the human being, ultimately comparing it to a lamp. Through this image, Walther allows us to grasp what it is like to experience the live presence of God that invades our being. This type of mystical experience can be found in all religions, thereby demonstrating that it is a real possibility given by God to human beings.

Cited authors

Husserl Edmund

Walther Gerda