Philosophy and Scripture in Mulla Sadra: A Comprehensive Exploration of the Intertwined Worlds of Reason and Revelation

In the vast tapestry of Islamic intellectual history, the figure of Mulla Sadra stands as a towering giant. A philosopher of unparalleled brilliance, he left an indelible mark on the philosophical landscape, weaving together the threads of reason and revelation to create a profound and enduring legacy. This article delves into the intricate world of Mulla Sadra's thought, exploring the deep interplay between philosophy and scripture in his seminal work.

At the heart of Mulla Sadra's philosophy lies the belief in the inherent harmony between reason and revelation. He saw these two sources of knowledge as complementary rather than conflicting, each offering a unique perspective on the nature of reality. Reason, with its rigorous logic and empirical observations, provides us with a rational understanding of the world. Revelation, on the other hand, offers a direct insight into the divine, illuminating truths that transcend human reason.

Mulla Sadra did not view reason as a mere tool to interpret scripture. Instead, he recognized its independent value in discerning the truth. However, he also acknowledged the limitations of human reason, recognizing that it cannot fully grasp the infinite wisdom of the divine. Thus, he advocated for a balanced approach, where reason and revelation mutually inform and illuminate each other.

The Triumph of Mercy: Philosophy and Scripture in Mulla Sadra

by Mohammed Rustom

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1101 KB
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Mulla Sadra's philosophical system, known as Transcendent Philosophy, is a comprehensive and systematic framework that seeks to reconcile the diverse strands of Islamic thought. It is based on the following fundamental principles:

• The Unity of Existence: Reality is ultimately one, and all beings participate in this unity. There is no absolute separation between God and creation, or between the material and spiritual worlds.
• The Gradual Emanation of Existence: The universe is not static but is in a constant state of evolution, emanating from the divine source and returning to it. Each level of existence is a manifestation of the divine essence, with varying degrees of perfection.
• The Essential Motion of Beings: All beings possess an inherent tendency towards perfection, which drives them to move from a state of potentiality to actuality. This motion is guided by the divine will, which acts as the ultimate cause of all change.

While reason plays a significant role in Mulla Sadra's philosophy, scripture holds an equally important place. He saw the Quran and other sacred texts as essential sources of wisdom and guidance, providing insights that transcend the limits of human reason.

According to Sadra, scripture is not merely a collection of historical accounts or moral teachings. It is a repository of divine knowledge, containing truths that are beyond the reach of human comprehension. Through the study and contemplation of scripture, we can gain access to a deeper understanding of reality and our place within it.

However, Sadra also cautioned against interpreting scripture in a literal or superficial manner. He emphasized the need to use reason in conjunction with scripture, to постичь the underlying meanings and apply them to our daily lives.

Sadra's epistemology, or theory of knowledge, is closely intertwined with his metaphysical teachings. He believed that genuine knowledge is not merely a product of sensory perception or logical deduction. Instead, it is a holistic process that involves the engagement of the entire human being, including the intellect, the heart, and the

The Triumph of Mercy: Philosophy and Scripture in Mulla Sadra

by Mohammed Rustom

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1101 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages

FREE