A Study and Comparison of “Sharh-e-Shatahiyat” by Rouz Bahan Baqli Shirazi and “Javaher-ol-Asrar” by Shaikh Azari Esfarayeni

Abstract

The goal of this study is surveying the similarities and differences between “Sharh-e-Shatahiyat” by Rouz Bahan Baqli and “Javaher-ol-Asrar” by Shaikh Azari Esfarayeni. The results indicated that these authors, through a pathology of Mysticism, have criticized the Sufi elders on the one hand, and have defended them on the other. Some of the common points of Sharh-e-Shatahiyat and Javaher-ol-Asrar include their Persian language, the respectful view of authors to Masters of Sufism and Mysticism, interpretation of Moqattae letters and semi-theophany words of the Prophet Mohammad and the theophany locutions of elders of Sufism, using verses from Holy Quran and the Prophet’s utterances while interpreting theophany locutions. Regarding differences could be said that paying attention to semi-theophany locutions of Kholafay-e Arbae (the four Caliphs) is one of the characteristics of Sharh-e-Shatahiyat, was interpreting versified theophany locutions of mystical poets is the feature of Javaher-ol-Asrar. Moreover Rouz Bahan himself is a master of theophany locutions, and his interest in Hallajʼs theophany locutions is obvious in his work. Such locutions, by Azari have not been reported, and, therefore, he can be counted as a member of Sahv School, who regarded all locutions from all sheiks. Differing ideologies of the two authors is also among the effective factors the content of the two works. Technical and difficult prose style of Rouz Bahan, in comparison with the relatively flowing prose of Shaikh Azari is another aspect of their distinction.

Keywords

• theophany locution
• rouz bahan baqli
• shaikh azari esfarayeni
• sharh-e-shatahiyat
• javaher-ol-asrar