Muḥyiddīn Ibn ‘Arabī’s exceptional and multidimensional influence, which perhaps was mainly the result of his extraordinary and comprehensive approach to spiritual concepts, through utilizing his unique linguistic skills in formation of an array of creative terms, expressions, and themes, earned him the title of shaykh al-akbar (the greatest master). This short note provides a few selected examples of central and popular themes in the School of Ibn ‘Arabī.[i]
Transcendent Philosophy Journal
Divine Encounters: Christian Mysticism in Reformed Theology and Its Societal Implications
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Jan
Jan
This paper explores the impact of Christian mysticism within Reformed theology, examining its theological basis, historical development, and modern interpretations and applications. Grounded in key Reformed doctrines such as the sovereignty of God, grace, the authority of Scripture, and total depravity, Reformed mysticism is presented as deeply integrated into the believer’s spiritual journey. The contributions of historical figures like John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, John Owen, and Abraham Kuyper are analysed to understand how mystical experiences have been shaped and contextualized within the Reformed tradition. Contemporary theologians, including Timothy Keller, John Piper, and Chris Watkin, are discussed to highlight the ongoing relevance and application of these principles in modern contexts. The paper also addresses the societal implications of mystical experiences, emphasizing their role in driving cultural engagement and social transformation. By inviting dialogue with Islamic Sufism, this paper invites further engagement and comparison, enriching the understanding of global religious experiences. The integration of mystical experiences with principled pluralism and common grace underscores the transformative potential of Reformed mysticism in shaping both individual lives and broader cultural narratives.
13
Jan
Jan
Christian Mysticism is a subjective approach to God that involves an intense, impassioned love for God that can transport you into times of sustained bliss or of inspiration. Early Christianity had its mystical elements, and it had many practitioners in the Fathers of the early Church. Origen of Alexandria was a scholar whose beliefs influenced and continue to influence, the approach of many Christian mystics. In the modern era, mysticism is enjoying something of a revival, particularly in the “charismatic” Christian movement. Christian mysticism is not constrained by social mores and has a wide range of expression.
10
Jan
Jan
Iranian Philosophy is a philosophical tradition developed by intellectuals of the great cultural Iran, focusing on theoretical and practical wisdom, particularly in ontology, epistemology, and anthropology. This tradition is original and independent rather than imitative. Iranian philosophy is independent of Greek philosophy. In the Iranian tradition of philosophy, philosophy and mysticism (‘Irfan) are generally intertwined. Ḥukamāʾ (theosophists) refers to philosophers and mystics in the history of Iranian intellectual thought. In this tradition, Ḥikmah, which renders wisdom or philosophy, refers to a philosophy based on intellect and the heart. Prominent schools of thought in this tradition include Avicennian, Illuminative, and Transcendental philosophy. We can divide Iranian philosophy into two periods: before and after Islam. Of Iran’s most important philosophical-mystical figures, we can mention Zoroaster, Fārābī, Ferdowsī, Ibn Sīnā, Khayyām, Suhrawardī, Rumi, Shaykh Ṣafī al-Dīn al-Ardabīlī, Mullā Ṣadrā, Sayyid Muḥammad Ḥusayn Ṭabāṭabāʾī, and Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
There is disagreement about the characteristics of Iranian philosophy. This article explores eight key topics: defining Iranian philosophy, examining its characteristics, its encounter with modernity and technocracy, the relationship between Iranian philosophy and Islamic philosophy, and the global influence of Iranian philosophy.