Description

Introduction The present work is in one of the major problem areas in philosophy, that is, mysticism. The purpose of the study is to understand mysticism with special reference to Gurudev Ranade and in comparison with some western thinkers. Religion, Spirituality and Mysticism are all interrelated and overlapping concepts, and each relates to the ultimate goal of life. That is why the topic covers all these concepts. But our focus in the thesis is on mysticism. A systematic account of the philosophical views on mysticism is attempted. In this process we have looked at the important mystics and saints of the East and the West. Attempt is also made to bring out the similarities and differences in the views of different thinkers on mysticism. I have drawn the material needed for this study mainly from Ranade‟s books which are the main source of for us; especially, The Pathway to God in Kannada Literature, The Pathway to God in Hindi Literature and its Source Book, and Indian Mysticism or Mysticism in Maharastra. In comparison to Ranade, I have taken up the study of some western thinkers, namely Evelyn Underhill, W.R. Inge and W.T. Stace. I have also referred to some other thinkers on mysticism, both in the East and the West. 1. Objectives, Hypotheses and Methodology: The objectives of the study are mainly the following i. To elucidate the concept of mysticism.

ii. To attempt a systematic presentation of Ranade‟s views on Mysticism. iii. To see Ranade in comparison with some western thinkers on Mysticism. The Hypotheses are: i. Mysticism is closely linked to religionand spirituality: Spirituality can be understood as the core of religion and mysticism as the height of spiritual attainment. ii. Ranade has made a significant contribution to the Philosophy of Mysticism. iii. Ranade‟s Philosophy of Mysticism stands out unique when compared with the views of Western Thinkers. Regarding the methodology adopted, the analytical method is used in bringing out the meaning of mysticism, the descriptive method in presenting Ranade‟s views on mysticism, and the comparative method in contrasting his views with the views of western thinkers. 2. Structure of the Thesis: There are five chapters in the thesis. They are: I Introduction II Religion, Spirituality and Mysticism: Their Interrelationship III. Ranade‟s Philosophy of Mysticism IV. Mysticism: Views of Some Western Thinkers V. Conclusion.