Ethische Aspekte mystischer Erfahrung
The Ethical Aspects of a Mystical Experience

Summary/Abstract: Mysticism is frequently identified with, almost exclusively, a spiritual sphere, which deprives it of its essential reference to an observable reality and human activity. The following article constitutes an attempt to present the ethical aspects resulting from a mystical experience – understood as a profound experience of God’s presence – exemplified by three persons: Saint Augustine of Hippo, Saint Faustina, and Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta. The analysis has been performed at three separated levels. First, the biographical context and mystical character of the examined people’s experiences is disclosed. Their mysticism is portrayed as a one-time experience, in case of Augustine and Mother Teresa, as well as as a few-year-long experience, in case of Faustina Kowalska. Secondly, the research focuses on the analysis of a mystical dialogue between God and a human being as the search of and finding of God (Augustine), delving into the mystery of Divine Mercy (Faustina) and the experience of spiritual darkness (Mother Teresa). The third level, in turn, concerns the means by which mystical experiences generated ethical commitment and love of neighbor. Regarding the explored attitudes, Augustine’s internal call, Faustina’s self-sacrifice in response to God’s love, and Mother Teresa’s exact service to the poor in slums are dealt with.

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