In contemporary times, it is common to talk about higher states of consciousness, especially as regards to New Age spirituality and the use of psychedelic drugs. Oftentimes, it is suggested that people who reach this kind of enlightenment have special knowledge of invisible realities and experience other phenomena not directly connected with sense experience. Tied with these “spiritual” experiences is notions of esoteric, or secret, knowledge. It is even implied or stated that such enlightened people have extraordinary powers.
We can contrast this with the Christian notion of enlightenment. First, some mystics are given extraordinary graces by which they perceive the immaterial presence of angels and demons. However, the doctors of the Church (Aquinas, Teresa of Avila, and John of the Cross) emphasize that these gratuitous graces are not merited, earned, or achieved by means of our unaided nature. They are given by God as a free gift and for the service of the Church.
The ordinary way of holiness is more direct and tied with the teachings of Christ and the scripture. There is no esoteric knowledge obtained at the heights of holiness which is not found in the Bible and in many cases can be taught to the young and simple. But despite this, the integration of these truths whereby one forms their entire life around them, is the most sublime of contemplations. The divine wisdom is revealed in the basic Catholic doctrines of the Eucharist, the Incarnation of Jesus Christ, the passion, and Resurrection of our Lord. Even the mystery of predestination and God’s providence can be taught and understood in the most basic of terms: God is in charge of all things and has a plan for our lives.
However, to fully interiorize these mysteries is properly speaking beyond our ability to fully grasp and must be entered into and seen in the depths of our being by unknowing and trustful surrender.