The Secret Teachings of Ibn Sina on Sufism: Illuminating the Intersection of Philosophy and Mysticism

Ibn Sina's teachings on Sufism reveal two mysteries: observing the macrocosm through the soul's eyes and comprehending a Sufi's inner essence via self-knowledge. The article examines the secret inner knowledge and its manifestation in Ibn Sina's Sufi views. In his allegorical work "Risola ut-Tayr," Ibn Sina compares the human soul to birds of paradise journeying through Earth, Space, and the Universe to a blissful Kingdom, figuratively describing cognitive stages leading to Truth and destiny. He calls followers to three principles: share knowledge as mentors, make esoteric content accessible to the public through language symbolism, and never take accomplishments for granted, as laziness harms science and knowledge.

Study at a glance

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.