Absolute Transcendence and Absolute Totality: A Comparative Study on the Absolute Unity in Hegel’s Philosophy and Ibn Arabi's Mystical School through their Relation to the Neoplatonic Negative Theology

Summary

This paper compares Hegel's concept of Geist as an absolute, immanent totality with Ibn 'Arabi's mystical doctrine of the Unity of Being, which emphasizes absolute transcendence and hiddenness. Connecting both to Plato's notion of "the One" as "beyond Being" and negative theology, it critiques Hegel's totality by questioning its claim to absoluteness and arguing for the philosophical necessity of transcending it to reach "the One." The critique reveals limitations in Hegelian thought while clarifying the philosophical basis of absolute hiddenness in Islamic mysticism, aiming to integrate mystical insight into philosophical discourse.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This cross-cultural study undertakes a comparative analysis of Hegel's concept of Geist as Absolute Immanent Totality and Ibn 'Arabi's mystical doctrine of the Unity of Being, characterized by absolute Transcendence and Hiddenness. By establishing a con- nection with Plato's notion of "the One" as "beyond Being" (ἐπέκεινα τῆς οὐσίας), which aligns with negative theology where the One surpasses all definition, this research critiques Hegel's totality, questioning its status as the absolute and examining the philo- sophical necessity of transcending it to reach "the One." This critique not only highlights the limitations of Hegelian thought but also elucidates the philosophical underpinnings of absolute hiddenness in Islamic mysticism. Ultimately, this study seeks to bridge the gap between philosophy and mysticism, demonstrating an argumentative framework for inte- grating mystical insight into philosophical discourse.

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