Muslim Cosmology: Mystic Participation and Spiritual-Psychic Energy
The International Journal of Islam March 15, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.66362/iji.v1i4.16 via OpenAlex
Summary
The study explores the hierarchical structure of Muslim cosmology, particularly focusing on Sufism and its rituals that connect the visible and invisible realms. It highlights how these practices embody spiritual-psychic energy and are deeply rooted in the beliefs of Muslims in Egypt. The findings suggest that there is a significant mystic dimension to Muslim cosmology, which posits an imperceptible cosmos that is considered more authentic than the material one.
Study at a glance
| Design | qualitative study |
|---|---|
| Population | Muslims living in Egypt |
| Key finding | Muslim cosmology incorporates mystic dimensions where an imperceptible cosmos is viewed as more real than the material reality. |
Abstract
This is an anthropological study of the hierarchically ordered Muslim cosmology with its seen and unseen spheres. Cosmology and mystic participation in Islam are manifested, for instance, in Sufism (tṣawwuf). This paper proposes that the connection between the visible and invisible spheres of the Muslim cosmology is embodied in the Sufis’ bodily rituals, mystic participations and esoteric beliefs resulting in spiritual-psychic energy. Muslim cosmologies are ethnographically addressed within the views and values of Muslims living in Egypt. Muslim cosmology is infused with deeply significant mystic dimensions according to which there exists, beyond the cosmos’ material reality, another imperceptible cosmos that is viewed as more real and more authentic. Muslim cosmology is contingent on models of spirituality, sanctification, illumination, unification and creation without nullifying mundane activities.