Memoir & Mystical Experience: Limitations & Possibilities in Recalling the Ineffable

Mystical or numinous experiences in established religion and alternative spiritualities are experienced in a multisensory, deeply imprinted, and long-remembered way; however, they cannot typically be recounted satisfactorily; they’re ineffable. As such, a mystic’s most meaningful memories--memories of union with God – are likely more implicit than explicit. This presentation will explore ways in which Margery Kempe and C. G. Jung 'documented' their experiences with their conceptualization of the Divine alongside considering possibilities for intentional practices and rituals for re-vivifying memories of numinous experiences such as those recorded in Jung's The Red Book.