Mulla Ahmad Naraqis Miraj al-saada

Mulla Ahmad Naraqis is renowned for his influential work, “Miraj al-Saada” (The Ascension of Happiness), a significant contribution to Shia Islamic thought that delves into the nuances of spiritual ascension and ethical conduct. Naraqis, a notable Shia scholar of the late Safavid period, elucidates the profound interconnectedness of spiritual enlightenment and moral rectitude in his discourses. Throughout the text, he posits that the road to divine proximity is laden with both obstacles and elucidating moments of grace.

At the core of “Miraj al-Saada,” one finds a comprehensive analysis of the human soul’s aspirations. Naraqis articulates a compelling notion: the soul aspires not merely for worldly comforts but for transcendent joy and celestial ascendance. This projection of hope is reflective of an innate desire for communion with the Divine. The observance of the collective yearning for such an experience illustrates an enduring facet of human nature—the pursuit of a bliss beyond the mundane.

As the narrative unfolds, Naraqis introduces the concept of the “nafs” (self) and its myriad layers. He delineates the path to purifying the lower self (nafs al-ammara), which is prone to base desires, urging the adherents to seek higher states of being. By employing allegorical tales and theological reflections, Naraqis provides insights into the transformative journey towards the “nafs al-mutma’inna” (the contented self). This metamorphosis is characterized by an elevation in moral consciousness and an alignment with the divine will.

One salient theme of “Miraj al-Saada” is the dichotomy between earthly attachments and spiritual aspirations. Naraqis astutely observes that while existential realities often cast shadows upon the heart’s aspirations, they simultaneously serve as catalysts for spiritual growth. The trials of life, whether personal tribulations or societal injustices, are framed as essential elements in the soul’s journey towards divine proximity. This perspective conveys a profound philosophical underpinning that resonates within the Shia ideology, emphasizing resilience as a premised virtue.