The Tawatur in Mystical Experiences; Formulation and Challenges
Ahmad Ebrahimzadeh, Mohammad Mahdi Gorjian
حکمت صدرایی September 13, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.30473/pms.2024.69340.2046 via DOAJ
Summary
The concept of tawatur, or the frequency of mystical experiences reported by different mystics, is proposed as a way to validate these experiences for non-mystics. This article outlines a six-stage process to explore the validity and sharing of mystical experiences, ultimately suggesting that if tawatur is successfully demonstrated, it can be deemed valid for those who have not experienced such phenomena themselves.
Study at a glance
| Design | analytical-descriptive approach |
|---|---|
| Key finding | The validity of mystical experiences for non-mystics can be established through the concept of tawatur if it successfully passes through a series of logical stages. |
Abstract
One proposed solution to address the validity of mystical experiences for non-mystics is to emphasize their frequency (tawatur). This approach suggests that certain mystical claims can be considered valid due to multiple reports from different mystics. This solution, which has been considered in Mulla Sadra's philosophy after Suhrawardi, can be seen as one of the best approaches in addressing the mentioned issue. However, even in recent research in the field of philosophy of mysticism and religion, the details of this solution have not been fully investigated. This article aims to logically formulate and elaborate on this solution using an analytical-descriptive approach, discussing key components, assumptions, and challenges. The necessary steps to achieve this goal can be outlined in six stages: first, examining the inherent validity of mystical experiences for the mystic themselves; second, establishing the possibility of sharing in mystical experiences; third, proving the occurrence of this sharing through the existence of an effective cause and the absence of obstacles; fourth, demonstrating the frequency (tawatur) of mystical experiences with necessary and sufficient conditions; fifth, discussing the authenticity and validity of tawatur; and finally, demonstrating the effectiveness of authentic tawatur in solving the problem of generalizing mystical experiences. In conclusion, if the claim of tawatur in a mystical experience successfully passes through these stages, it can be considered valid for non-mystics as well.