Avicenna’s Inclination toward Mysticism and Intuitive Knowledge Compared to Molla Sadra

Abstract

In Avicenna’s epistemological framework, knowledge is attainable solely through rational intuition, not mystical intuition. Avicenna emphasized intellectual knowledge and the connection to the active intellect, grounded in theoretical reason and rational intuition, as the ultimate aim of knowledge and happiness. However, Mulla Sadra posited that certain transcendent truths surpass the grasp of theoretical reason, necessitating intuition and innate knowledge beyond the bounds of reason. Scholars who advocate for Avicenna’s mystical tendencies can be divided into two groups: the first group, including traditionalists like Seyyed Hossein Nasr, Henry Corbin, and Gholamhossein Ebrahimi Dinani, consider Avicenna a pioneer of mystical thought within the Islamic philosophy tradition, following the footsteps of earlier Islamic, Iranian, and Eastern mystics. The second group comprises recent researchers who argue that Avicenna’s philosophy exhibits dual aspects. By examining his epistemological system and philosophical psychology, they seek to distinguish between the mystical and peripatetic facets of Avicenna's thought. In the upcoming discussion, we will compare Avicenna’s and Mulla Sadra’s perspectives on intuitive knowledge. It will become apparent that neither the claims of the first group nor those of the second group can be substantiated. Even if Avicenna mentioned mysticism in his works, his views consistently emanated from a rational perspective, and he remained firmly rooted in his peripatetic style throughout his philosophical journey.

Keywords

• avicenna
• mulla sadra
• rational intuition
• illuminative wisdom
• mystical knowledge