Mysticism: Its History and Challenge

Bruno Borchert's is a readable classic, as well as a reference for home, public and academic libraries. Beefy in size and nourishing to boot, it is hard to imagine a less stuffy, more complete compendium. In Part I, ``The Phenomenon of Mysticism,'' Borchert compares being in love to mystical experience. Part II, ``The History of Mysticism,'' covers the East; Iran; Israel; the Hellenistic world; a feminist worldview; God as Lover and Beloved; the mystical retreat; and more. Part III, ``The Mystical Way,'' shines a light on contemporary paths, concluding simply and profoundly with two poems. Copious, eclectic illustrations and satisfying appendices (i.e., ``Mapping Mystical Influences,'' ``Timeliness,'' ``A Glossary of Mystics,'' etc.), bibliography and indices put the final shine on this star. Illustrations. (Apr.)