Distinctive Features of Epistemology in the Theology of Rumi and Ibn Arabi Compared to Christian Mysticism and Western Philosophical Schools

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate, the Religions and Mysticism group at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 Associate Professor of Religions and Mysticism of Ferdowsi University, Iran

Abstract

This research delves into the characteristics of authentic knowledge in Islamic Sufism, particularly focusing on the epistemologies of Rumi and Ibn Arabi. It aims to compare these perspectives with Christian mysticism and philosophical and theological epistemology. The study highlights the distinct approaches of Rumi and Ibn Arabi as two prominent figures in Islamic Sufism, contrasting them with the understanding of God in Christian mysticism. Contemporary scholars' analyses of mystical knowledge and the perspectives of certain philosophers of religion are examined to provide a comprehensive evaluation, which is a primary goal of this paper. By examining the relationship between mystical knowledge and rationality, the study assesses the position of knowledge within a mystical system structured around intuition. Authentic knowledge passes through the gate of a legitimate and moderate spiritual path. Its validity is linked to the manner of this spiritual journey and the belief in the One God, as true revelation is in fact derived from a correct connection with the singular reality of existence, and this connection necessitates its appropriate requirements.Ultimately, the paper argues that the mystical knowledge of Rumi and Ibn Arabi is not confined to limited, instrumental reason but aligns with a higher reality known as universal reason. This starkly contrasts Christian belief, with its emphasis on incarnation and the mystical perspectives accompanying it. Consequently, approaches that contradict explicit rationality, such as incarnation, and theosis, cannot be considered valid in their understanding of God.

Keywords

References

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Comparative Study of Religions and Mysticism
Volume 9, Issue 2
September 2025
Pages 319-345

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 September 2024
  • Revise Date: 31 December 2024
  • Accept Date: 26 April 2025

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