The ultimate goal of the mystic is union with the Absolute. But this path follows a number of stages.
This path of the mystic is largely absent from our modern society. Forgotten, caricatured, even mocked, this path has nevertheless proven itself over centuries. This teaching possessed a certain understanding of the depths of the human psyche.
1) The awakening of the self: to spiritual reality. The discovery of a new consciousness. This experience is accompanied by joy and enthusiasm.
2) Cleansing and purification: a painful stage because the mystic-in-training realizes the distance that separates them from absolute reality. They must traverse the illusions of matter and detach themselves from the world of the senses.
3) Illumination: the first sensation of a divine presence. The contemplative state allows for the establishment of a true mystical life.
4) The dark night of the soul: Having glimpsed divine reality through a nascent transcendence, the mystic realizes they must purify themselves, consciously letting the natural self die so that the spiritual self may be born. This is mystical death.
5) Union: This is the true and ultimate goal of the mystical path. The mystic transcends their earthly reality and becomes ONE. Joy, intense certainty, and a feeling of balance and rightness: this is mystical ecstasy.
The mystical posture combines the highest form of union with the greatest form of freedom. Reaching the Absolute is tantamount to experiencing the greatest freedom.