There are, indeed, things that cannot be put into words. They make themselves manifest. They are what is mystical
There are, indeed, things that cannot be put into words. They make themselves manifest. They are what is mystical
Ludwig Wittgenstein, a renowned Austrian-British philosopher, is often associated with the idea that there are things that cannot be put into words. He believed that language is limited in its ability to accurately capture the complexity and depth of human experience. Wittgenstein argued that there are aspects of reality that are beyond the reach of language, and that these ineffable experiences are what he referred to as mystical.In his philosophical works, particularly in his later writings, Wittgenstein delves into the nature of language and its limitations. He famously stated, "Whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent." This quote encapsulates his belief that there are certain things that are beyond the realm of language and cannot be adequately expressed through words. Instead, these ineffable experiences must be experienced and understood on a deeper, more intuitive level.
Wittgenstein's concept of the mystical is not necessarily tied to religious or supernatural beliefs, but rather to the idea that there are aspects of reality that transcend language and rational thought. These ineffable experiences can include emotions, sensations, and intuitions that are difficult to articulate through words. They are deeply personal and subjective, and often defy traditional modes of communication.
For Wittgenstein, the mystical is not something to be dismissed or ignored, but rather something to be acknowledged and respected. He believed that by recognizing the limitations of language, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human experience. By embracing the mystical, we can open ourselves up to new ways of thinking and being in the world.