Re: nature of mysticism

From: Charles <charles_at_...>
Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2013 02:14:57 -0000

I'm not sure that this is entirely correct.

My understanding is that mystics do get magic through their practices. Mystics that remain on the path think that these magics are inconsequential (I've been looking for a reference but can't find it right now).

There seem to be three magics that mystics get.

Refutation - the ability to discard the effects of magic upon themselves. As everything in Glorantha is magic, for a 'powerful' mystic, this becomes pretty wide ranging.

The ability to reveal a portion of the ultimate to others. Again, for a powerful mystic, when revealing this to the unprepared, it seems to be a devastating blow.

Some form of prophecy or precognition. This is likely a side effect of their greater understanding of the ultimate rather than an overt power.

Use of these powers for 'selfish reasons' creates attachments to minor parts of the world rather than to the ultimate and therefore is a step backwards on the path.

However, for a 'failed mystic' such as Sheng Seleris, who was just a slight step away from the ultimate, these powers are great enough to be able to bind all but the greatest of gods, and spirits. The greatest of gods and spirits have their own connection to the ultimate and therefore cannot be bound.

More contentiously, The mystical 'otherworld' is this world. But that is inconsequential to mystics, just as the magic it gives is inconsequential.

regards,
Charles            

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