Comparative Analysis of the Unity of Existence (Wahdat al Wujud) in Hikmah Mutā‘ālīyah (Transcendental philosophy of Molla Sadra) and Advaita Vedanta Philosophy

Summary

Both Molla Sadra's Transcendental philosophy in Islam and Sankara's Advaita Vedanta in Hinduism affirm a singular reality concealed by a metaphorical veil, drawing on their respective sacred texts—the Quran and the Vedas. Sadra articulates this through Gradational unity and Individual unity of existence, while Sankara uses non-dualism and the doctrine of Maya to argue that Atman (individual soul) is identical to Brahman (universal consciousness). Despite sharing this core notion, their comprehensive systems differ, and this paper explores their commonalities and divergences.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The concept of the unity of existence finds resonance in both Islamic philosophy, particularly in the Transcendental philosophy of Molla Sadra, and the Advaita Vedanta school of Indian philosophy, notably championed by the mystic philosopher Sankara. Molla Sadra's philosophical framework is rooted in the intertwining principles of Multiplicity within Unity and Unity within Multiplicity, (Kathrat fil Wahdat, Wahdat fil Kathrat) elucidated through two key theories: (I) Gradational unity of existence, (Al Wujud Al Tashkiki) and (II) Individual unity of existence. (Wahadat al Shkaksi) Sankara, a mystic philosopher within the Vedanta tradition, expounds upon the unity of existence through non-dualism, positing that Atman (individual soul) is identical to Brahman (universal consciousness). His philosophical stance involves dismantling the perceived realm of multiplicity by invoking the concept of cosmic illusion, referred to as the doctrine of Maya. This paper delves into an exploration of the perspectives of Molla Sadra and Sankara regarding the unity of existence. While both thinkers share the notion that a singular reality is concealed by a metaphorical veil, they each draw inspiration from their respective sacred texts-the Quran for Molla Sadra and the Vedas for Sankara. Consequently, they have formulated comprehensive systems of thought grounded in principles and assertions that invite scrutiny. However, it is essential to note that some disparities exist in their ideas. This paper aims to elucidate the commonalities and divergences between Molla Sadra's and Sankara's philosophies, shedding light on the similarities and polarities inherent in their conceptualizations of the unity of existence.