Rational Explanation of Mystic Revelation According to the view of Shikhe-Ishraq & Mulla Sadra

Theoretical mysticism is mainly based upon the intuitive discoveries of the mystics. However, this subject has frequently caused a lot of controversy over the question whether or not these discoveries can be rationally justified; in other words, can one rationally explain those discoveries thereby justifying the claims of mystics in philosophical and rational terms? Concerning the nature of intuition, rational explanation of the intuitive discoveries of the mystics is among difficult and complex issues dealt with in philosophy and Islamic mysticism (Sufism); more precisely, the elements of “reason and intuition” play a crucial role in the scheme of these revelations. Considering the role and definition of “reason and intuition” in religious texts, philosophy and mysticism, the present dissertation addresses an investigation of this issue drawing upon the works of “Mullā Sadrā and Sheikh– al-Eshragh” and then presents the results related to the issue. With “analytical-descriptive” method, the presents study, focusing on literature of Islamic Sufism especially the works of two divine sages, Mullā Sadrā and Sheikh– al-Eshragh, highlights the view that rationalization of mystical revelations is not only possible but is also inevitable based on the structure and philosophical foundations of Sohrevardi and Mullā Sadrā. In other words, mystical revelations cannot be considered outside the realm of reason. However, this is achieved not through the instrumental reason but a reason illuminated with the light of divine wisdom free from any material contamination; a reason forming the basis of all existence.  In this dissertation, following the Introduction section, in order to systematize the process of intuition rationalization, an investigation is performed on the position of reason and intuition in Islamic Sufism and religious texts; this issue is then investigated from the perspectives of Mullā Sadrā and Sheikh– al-Eshragh through citing a few examples. Then, an analysis of the views of opponents and proponents by referring to their own words is presented asserting that the opposition of many mystics is not intrinsically rational; moreover, one can see contradictions in their speech. Therefore, it can be concluded that the discoveries of companions of revelation and intuition can be rationally supported. Finally, the main theory is presented and the process of rationalization and the issues associated with it are explained in the conclusion; furthermore, it is recognized that reason is a source upon which mystical revelations can be clarified.