The meaning of the term mysticism was clearly defined to me by my father. As his was more concise than my interpretation of the word. Mysticism is the study of the mysteries. A mystic is one who studies the mysteries of the universe. Issac Newton developed Calculus in an endeavor to prove God existed mathematically. Benjamin Franklin wanted to unravel the mysteries of electricity. The world is filled with mysteries so in a sense any endeavor to understand any of these mysteries could be perceived as a mystic path. However there is also a deeper meaning that most identify with which is an endeavor to find oneness with the Cosmic all, God, Great Spirit. The path of a mystic is both pragmatic as well as open minded. It involves developing the attention of the mind, concentration, contemplation, observation, meditation. All of the skills that when developed allows the mind to grasp a much greater awareness of self as well as ones surroundings. The mystic is as interested in the arts and sciences as much as the philosophies and doctrines of humanity. With a keen awareness that indeed there is a principle or force much greater than the consciousness of humanity and ultimately this is what those who are on this path endeavor. Endeavor and Mysticism are words that belong together as it is an endless journey with no end but many adventures of consciousness and spiritual experiences. In any event this is my interpretation of mysticism. It is by no means the Webster nor wikipedia version.