On the Differences between Inspiration and Revelation

Inspiration is the implantation of an idea in one's heart; it is sent either directly by God or through the mediation of an appointed angel. Revelation, however, has a prophetic function and refers to the particular relationbetween God and the prophets. Inspiration, in its mystical sense, refers to a kind of divine communication and gift for man which calls him to take an action. The essential difference between inspiration and revelation to the saints is not clear, though they both seem to share the quality of being heavenly. Therefore, special inspiration which is the very knowledge of the Imams has no essential difference with the prophetic revelation to the prophet; however, according to narrations, it is not proper to label it as revelation. Particular qualities of inspiration and revelation enable us to mention some differences between them including the followings: revelation is specific to prophethood while inspiration is a characteristic of guardianship; the source of revelation is known to the prophet, etc. Inspirations to the non-immaculate saints, and even the immaculate ones, merely contribute to the quantitative expansion of religious law. According to some traditions, Immaculate Imams (PBUT) had a kind of knowledge which resembles revelation and can be named inspiration or recounting traditions. The knowledge of the saints (mystics) comes from that of the Imams and the Prophet, but does not have the same rank as their knowledge. As a result, no perfect mystic can claim to have experiences beyond those of the Imams or the Prophet.