The Way of the Mystics

by Howard Thurman, Peter Eisenstadt (Editor), Walter Earl Fluker (Editor)

Howard Thurman tended not to speak of his own mystical inclinations, conscious that the word mysticism was likely to be misunderstood. And yet Thurman is commonly recognized as a mystic in the sense that he used the word to describe someone who had an acute experience of the Divine Life. Furthermore, the kind of mysticism to which he was attracted was not something airy or otherworldly, but one that promoted with the world and its transformation. In this Sermon Series, Thurman reflects on his personal canon of mystics, ranging from William Blake and Buddha, to Gandhi, St. Francis, and his teacher Rufus Jones.

175 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 25, 2021

About the author

Howard Washington Thurman was an author, philosopher, theologian, educator, and civil rights leader. As a prominent religious figure, he played a leading role in many social justice movements and organizations of the twentieth century.

Reviews

[Dustin Mailman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read just about every primary source from Thurman, and this collection of sermons and lectures is by far the best. His direct wrestling with Mysticism and Social change, and his willingness to integrate the voices of mysticism for the past 1,000+ years, offers a vital resource for religious practitioners today. I particularly loved the two concluding lectures in this text. This is where Thurman as “time-binder” and “space binder” takes flesh.

[Jeffrey N. Hora · Rating 4 out of 5]

While the transcription of these talks is pretty straight-forward, since they follow the event closely, they can be difficult to follow at times. That said, I always get a lot of inspiration from Howard Thurman's work, and highly recommend this work.

[Chris Theule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going deeper with Howard Thurman.

[Frodo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have heard of Howard Thurman for many years but this was the first time I’ve actually read any of his work. I knew of his connection and inspiration to the 60’s civil rights movement and Dr. King. I am eager to read more of Thurman’s writing now that I have been exposed to the mystics through his sermons in this little book.