Existence and Its Degrees in the Philosophy of Leader of Theosophers

Mulla Ṣadrā (Ṣadr al-Motoʻallehin) has provided a particular ontological system in the light of attitude based on existential unity and multiplicities which exist in existence. In the arc of descent, this system includes the station of essence (non-conditioned existence as the source of division), the station of oneness (first determination), the station of uniqueness (second determination), divine soul (non-conditioned existence as the source of division/ expanded effluence), and creative determinations (intellect, image, and material). In this system, all these stations are in aforementioned order, each has its own features, and there are special relationships among them. The multiplicities of this system are also considered as aspects and manifestations of absolute oneness (the Most High God) and have no existence contradictory to Him- the Glorious the High.