"I bring a sword"; "My peace I give" : experience, the binding factor

This brief study focuses on the notion of 'pure experience' in relation to Catholic theologians Raimon Panikkar and Bede Griffiths in dialogue with Indigenous Australian spirituality. Theologically, 'pure experience' is understood as a contemplative way of being in the world that resonates with the Aboriginal notion of dadirri, or 'deep listening.' It is an experience of reality that is both 'now' and 'not yet', at once ancient and ever-new. Such experience may bring peace, but it may also bring conflict. At the same time, it pierces the ordinary realm of existence leading us towards an experience of transcendence. This essay demonstrates how Panikkar's and Griffiths' notion of 'pure experience' is enriched by dialogue with Aboriginal spiritual traditions. moreover, it argues that humanity is called to this deeper, contemplative mode of consciousness as the vital need of our times. We begin by addressing the approaches of Panikkar and Griffiths in the Indian context and, then, draw on Aboriginal perspectives, particular the Ramingining clans of the Arafura Swamp in the Northern Territory.