Throughout history civilizations around the world have made their various myths, mystical experiences, and rituals part of their cosmologies. "Introduction to Myth, Ritual and Mysticism" is one of the first textbooks to combine the study of these three topics. It provides clear explanations of each, first exploring them individually and then discussing how they blend, connect, fortify, and sustain one another. The book explores the universal principles, stories, and commonalities that all cultures share, examining them from anthropological, philosophical, and theological perspectives. From this students will gain an understanding that regardless of religious and cultural differences, in many ways we have much in common. In addition, we have similar stories and approaches to life. Recognizing that myth, mysticism, and ritual are still important in contemporary societies, the book also provides clear examples of how they are presented and function in our world today.
The book is appropriate for upper and lower division students and can be used in Anthropology and Religious Studies courses. Study and review questions are provided throughout the book to support and enhance learning.
Dr. Phyllis Baker teaches Ritual, Myth and Mysticism, and Introduction to Anthropology at Florida International University. She also teaches at Nova University, and is Professor Emeritus of the Social Sciences at the Wolfson Campus of Miami-Dade College. Dr. Baker has been recognized in the Miami Herald as an outstanding professor. The American Association for Community Colleges has awarded her the National Leadership Award, and she has also received The Innovator of the Year Award from the National League of Innovation.
Dr. Baker is the author of the books "African-American Spirituality, Thought and Culture," and "A Dreamer s Journey." In her current book, "Introduction to Ritual, Myth, and Mysticism," Dr. Baker chronicles ten years of teaching about mysticism, an experience which has been enriched by her personal experience in this area."

"African-American Spirituality, Thought and Culture" delves into the mysterious and the sacred sciences of African-American people by examining aspects such as dreams, prophecies, healing traditions, spiritual processions, and other cultural aspects that has informed and guided many in the culture for hundreds of years.

This book is an attempt to make sense to myself; and to help other people understand themselves. Additionally, this works seeks to resurrect the souls of the ancestors, so we may draw from their knowledge, their power and their strength. It is to assist in putting our lives in perspective and provide a context that is meaningful and holistic. This work is for other ethnic and cultural groups as well, in an effort for them to gain some clarity and appreciation for the spiritual and cultural heritage of African Americans. In truth, there are some universal truths and principles that transcend culture. Perhaps this work can bring to light an understanding of how very fascinating human beings really are, particularly when viewed from a historical, cultural and spiritual context.