Al-Hikmat al-mutaaliya fi l-asfar al-aqliyyat al-arbaa (book)

In the continuum of Islamic scholarship, few works delineate the profundity and intricacies of philosophical and theological inquiry as distinctly as “Al-Hikmah al-Muta’aliyyah fi ‘l-Asfar al-‘Aqliyyah al-Arba’ah.” Written by the eminent philosopher Mulla Sadra in the 17th century, this seminal work lays out a cohesive framework that interweaves metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics to elucidate the nature of existence and the human experience. The title, which translates to “The Transcendent Philosophy of the Four Intellectual Journeys,” encompasses a vast terrain—both literal and allegorical—inviting scholars and enthusiasts alike to delve into its layered meanings.

The allure of “Al-Hikmah al-Muta’aliyyah” arises from its profound illumination of key philosophical themes. At its core, Mulla Sadra navigates four specific journeys that the intellect undertakes: the journey from the material world to the realm of pure intellect, from creation to the Creator, from the multiplicity of existence to the unity of Being, and finally, from the ephemeral to the everlasting. Each journey reveals the inherent dichotomy of corporeal and spiritual realms, encouraging readers to transcend mere sensory experiences.

In the initial journey, Mulla Sadra posits the foundational importance of understanding the material world not as a separate entity, but as integral to the grand tapestry of existence. This journey is essentially an ontological inquiry, where he seeks to unveil the “haqiqah,” or the essence of beings. The allure of this philosophical stance lies in its radical reorientation of perception; it demands that one look beyond the obvious, challenging conventional understandings of reality and encouraging an exploration of deeper existential truths.

As the intellect advances to the second journey, the text transitions into a profound theological discourse, prompting a reevaluation of the relationship between creation and the Creator. In examining divine attributes, Mulla Sadra articulates a vision of transcendence that asserts God’s unity and indivisibility. This theological framework resonates with the Shia understanding of the divine, offering a compelling narrative that harmonizes reason with faith. The relevance of this relationship in contemporary Shia thought cannot be overstated, as it grapples with modern existential questions while remaining rooted in classical Islamic teachings.