Alan Watts: 'If you study the writings of the mystics, you will always find things in them that appear to be paradoxes, as in Zen, particularly.'

If you study the writings of the mystics, you will always find things in them that appear to be paradoxes, as in Zen, particularly.

In his quote, Alan Watts suggests that the writings of mystics often include paradoxical concepts, with a particular emphasis on Zen. This statement highlights the intriguing and enigmatic nature of mysticism, inviting us to explore the depths of spiritual teachings. Watts draws attention to the presence of paradoxes within mystic literature, suggesting that what may initially appear contradictory holds profound wisdom and insight.To comprehend the significance of Watts' quote, we can start by acknowledging the essence of mysticism. It is a spiritual practice that seeks a direct experience of divinity or ultimate truth beyond the limitations of conventional knowledge. Mysticism delves into the realm of the unexplainable, transcending the boundaries of logic and reason. Therefore, the presence of paradoxes in mystical writings is not simply a coincidence; it is a deliberate reflection of their intrinsic nature.By incorporating paradoxes, mystics challenge our linear thinking and encourage us to embrace a more comprehensive understanding of existence. Within Zen philosophy, paradoxes are commonly utilized as tools for awakening and enlightenment. These seemingly contradictory statements or scenarios are designed to disrupt our fixed patterns of perception and open our minds to a higher truth.In order to further explore the significance of paradoxes in mysticism, we can connect Watts' quote to an unexpected philosophical concept known as the theory of non-duality. Non-duality suggests that all distinctions we perceive in the world, such as good and evil, self and other, or even existence and non-existence, are illusory. According to this perspective, reality can only be truly grasped when we transcend dualistic thinking and experience a oneness with all that is.The parallel between paradoxes and non-duality lies in their ability to challenge our conceptual understanding of the world. Just as paradoxes confront us with contradictions, non-duality challenges our tendency to categorize, separate, and label phenomena. In embracing non-duality, we recognize that the entirety of existence is interconnected, interdependent, and ultimately boundless.Interestingly, the presence of paradoxes in mystic writings can be seen as a means of pointing towards the non-dual nature of reality. By presenting us with apparent contradictions, mystics aim to disrupt the limitations of our rational mind and enable us to experience a more profound reality beyond conventional logic. Paradoxes become gateways to the realm of non-duality, inviting us to transcend the confines of dualistic thinking and discover the unity that underlies all existence.In conclusion, Alan Watts' quote highlights the prevalence of paradoxes in mystical writings, particularly in Zen philosophy. These paradoxes play a significant role in challenging our conventional understanding and inviting us to explore deeper truths. When approached with an open mind, paradoxes can become powerful tools that disrupt our fixed patterns of thinking and lead us toward the enigmatic realm of non-duality. By embracing these paradoxes, we embark on a journey of exploration, questioning, and transformation that ultimately brings us closer to a more profound understanding of ourselves and the universe.