Reconceptualizing Epistemology in Islamic Mysticism: A Critical Analysis of Knowledge Through Presence in Mehdi Ha’iri Yazdi's Thought

Mystical knowledge in Islamic thought can be understood as direct, non-representational awareness rather than mere subjective intuition, according to Mehdi Ha’iri Yazdi’s concept of Knowledge through Presence (al-‘ilm al-huduri). Yazdi’s epistemological framework bridges classical Islamic illuminationist philosophy (hikmah al-ishraq) and contemporary philosophical discourse by emphasizing the existential unity between the knower and the known. The analysis of his work, *The Principles of Epistemology in Islamic Philosophy*, shows that his approach integrates rational analysis, metaphysical realism, and spiritual experience, offering an alternative to Western dualistic epistemologies. This model reaffirms the legitimacy of mystical consciousness as a valid source of knowledge in contemporary Islamic philosophy.

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Abstract

This study critically examines the epistemology of mysticism in Islamic thought through Mehdi Ha’iri Yazdi’s concept of Knowledge through Presence (al-‘ilm al-huduri). The research positions Yazdi’s epistemological framework as a bridge between classical Islamic illuminationist philosophy (hikmah al-ishraq) and contemporary philosophical discourse. Employing qualitative-descriptive and analytical methods, the study explores Yazdi’s seminal work, *The Principles of Epistemology in Islamic Philosophy*, alongside key secondary sources, to uncover the philosophical coherence and ontological implications of his ideas. The findings reveal that Yazdi redefines mystical knowledge not as mere subjective intuition but as direct, non-representational awareness rooted in the existential unity between the knower and the known. This approach emphasizes the integration of rational analysis, metaphysical realism, and spiritual experience, presenting an alternative to Western dualistic epistemologies. Ultimately, this study concludes that Yazdi’s theory offers a comprehensive, integrative model of Islamic epistemology that reaffirms the legitimacy of mystical consciousness as a valid and crucial source of knowledge in contemporary Islamic philosophy, bridging the gap between traditional and modern philosophical paradigms.