This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1893 edition. Excerpt: ... THE INWARD MAN. CHAPTER THE FIRST. Some Axioms Of Transcendental Science. I. IN the definitions of its most authoritative exponents, Mysticism is variously described as the traditional science of the sacred arcana of Nature which are derived from the Magi; and as the primeval religious, moral, and political doctrine of humanity. It has been connected with vulgar superstitions, but is itself neither superstitious nor vulgar. It is at once a science, an art, and a religion. "It unites in a single gnosis all that is most certain in philosophy and most infallible and eternal in faith." Its palmary province is to lead intellectual aspiration into the plane of absolute realization. II. Thus it can place the qualified neophyte in possession of a practical and even of a creative power; but this power in all its scope is available for the "flowers of intelligence alone." III. It can connect such intelligences with the operative energies of the universe, and thus enable them to perform within the domain of natural law that which is impossible to humanity at large, and is therefore called miraculous. IV. The Mystic can then control matter and adapt it thaumaturgically to his purpose because he works in accordance with the laws which govern it. V. These laws are not outside matter; they are merely the permanent mode of its manifestation. VI. But the search after arcane power is not the true end of transcendental science, and those who pursue it will miss the divine vocation and misinterpret the divine voice. VII. The true end of all Mysticism is union with God, which is accomplished in the knowledge of God, and is effected by the love of God. In comparison with this all other objects are vain and unprofitable. VIII. The knowledge of God is...