The Secret Teachings of Ibn Sina on Sufism: Illuminating the Intersection of Philosophy and Mysticism
Middle East Journal of Applied Science & Technology January 1, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.46431/mejast.2024.7316 via Semantic Scholar
Summary
Ibn Sina's Sufi teachings reveal that self-knowledge allows one to perceive the macrocosm through the soul's eye. His allegorical work 'Risola ut-Tayr' compares the human soul to birds of paradise journeying through Earth, space, and the universe to a blissful Kingdom, symbolizing the cognitive stages leading to Truth. He urged followers called 'Brothers in truth' to share knowledge openly while keeping esoteric secrets hidden, use language symbolism, and never become complacent, as laziness destroys science and knowledge.
Study at a glance
| Design | theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Ibn Sina's Sufi teachings emphasize self-knowledge as a path to perceiving the macrocosm and understanding Truth, with allegorical works like 'Risola ut-Tayr' illustrating the soul's journey and principles for knowledge seekers. |
Abstract
The ability to observe "olami akbar" (great world) or the macrocosm, through the eyes of the soul and to comprehend the inner essence of a Sufi through self-knowledge are two of the mysteries of Ibn Sina's teachings on Sufism that the author focuses on in particular. The article examines the secret knowledge of "botin"(inner) and its manifestation in the Sufi views of Ibn Sina. The author's research highlights not only Ibn Sina's contributions as a scientist but also his perspective on Sufism and how he evaluated the virtues of their actions. In his allegorical work "Risola ut-Tayr" Ibn Sina compares the human soul to the birds of paradise. They have to make a long journey through the vast expanses of Earth, Space and the Universe to a blissful Kingdom. By the way, he described in a figurative form the stages of the cognitive process that lead a person to understand the Truth and realize his important destiny. But this path of knowledge is not covered with heavenly flowers and roses. Therefore, Ibn Sina calls his followers - "Brothers in truth" to follow the following basic principles of knowledge. First and foremost, people who aspire to knowledge and excellence, divulge their trade secrets, and serve as mentors and teachers to others. Secondly, while keeping all of the doctrine's secrets hidden, the esoteric content of knowledge ought to be made available to the "general public" in an open manner. Language symbolism is the most effective means of disseminating knowledge. Thirdly, you should never take your accomplishments for granted. Any laziness is disastrous for science and knowledge.