Difference between a contemplative &. mystic

[Michel]

Jhananda,

There are so many definitions out there. What is your definition of a contemplative and a mystic?

[Jhanananda]

Hello Michel, this is a good question. 

A contemplative is simply one who practices meditation and self-awareness.

A mystic is one who has cultivated the religious experience.

Most, if not all, mystics started out as contemplatives.  They learned to cultivate and hone their religious experiences through leading a contemplative life.  Therefore, most of the people on this forum, such as your self, are learning to become mystics.

[Michel]

Now, that's a short and sweet definition. I adore simplicity, precision and clarity in all things. Thank-you, Jhananda.

P.S. Is your name 'Jhanananda' or do you spell it 'Jhananda'? Some people call you "Jeff". Which do you prefer?

[Jhanananda]

'Jhanananda' and 'Jhananda' are two ways to write my monastic name in English.  I took both to assure that one could not be appropriated by someone else. 

My given name is Jeffrey.  Those who honor and respect me as a contemplative who has become a mystic call me 'Jhananda'.  However, I do not really care what anyone calls me. 

I still have a presence in the scientific community, so I expect to be called 'Jeffrey Brooks' there.  I have recently taken the name 'Jeffrey Jhananda Brooks' to help people more successfully search my work via Google.