CFP: MYSTICISM(S) BEYOND THE WEST

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS: MYSTICISM(S) BEYOND THE WEST 

Conference venue: Campion Hall, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
Conference dates: 9 am Monday 29 June 2026 – 1 pm Wednesday 1 July 2026
Abstract submission deadline: 1 March (end of day)
Notification of acceptance: 15 March 

Keynote speakers

Dr. Marta Domínguez Díaz (Senior Lecturer in Islamic Studies, University of St Gallen)

Professor Gavin Flood (Professor of Hindu Studies and Comparative Religion; Senior Research Fellow, Campion Hall) 

Description

This conference invites papers that explore mystical traditions beyond the Western canon, with a particular focus on traditions that have remained underrepresented in mainstream scholarship. The conference aims to foreground non-Western mystical traditions and to foster dialogue across religious, cultural, and disciplinary boundaries. Traditions of interest include, but are not limited to, Indian, Islamic, East Asian, Eastern Christian, and Indigenous contexts. Papers may be historical, philosophical, theological, anthropological, or interdisciplinary in approach. 

We welcome contributions that address, among other topics:

• Theoretical and methodological challenges in applying the category of mysticism beyond Western contexts
• Comparative, cross-cultural, and decolonial approaches to mystical traditions
• Relationships between mysticism and rationality, philosophy, or theology in non-Western traditions
• Mysticism and ethics, practice, embodiment, or social life
• Marginalised, neglected, or emerging mystical voices and texts 

The event is intended for established scholars, early-career researchers, and advanced postgraduate students working in comparative religion, theology, philosophy, and related fields. We will aim at a gender balance among speakers and we welcome contributions from members of underrepresented groups. Selected papers may be considered for publication in either an edited volume or a special issue of a peer-reviewed journal. 

Submission guidelines

Submissions should take the form of an abstract of around 300 words, submitted by email in word or pdf format to [email protected] by 1 March (end of day). Applicants will be notified of the outcome of the selection process by 15 March. 

Conference fees

£60 for waged participants, £30 for unwaged / student participants. Please note that we are unable to cover accommodation or travel costs. 

Organisers

Dr Szilvia Szanyi (Faculty of Theology and Religion & Campion Hall, University of Oxford)
Dr Brett Parris (Faculty of Theology and Religion, University of Oxford)