Irfan in Iran: The Status of Mysticism and Mystical Education in Contemporary Iran

Throughout history, Iran has been one of the influential centers of mysticism and spirituality. After the arrival of Islam, Iran became a center for Islamic spirituality, also known as Sufism or 'irfan. Many great figures such as Hallaj, BaYazid, Kharaqani, Gazaly, 'Attar, Shams Tabrizi, and Moulavi (Rumi), are all examples of prominent Sufi figures. For over a millennium and through the generations, these spiritual teachings have been transmitted from great Sufi masters to their students. One important phenomena related to mysticism is the relationship between Sufism and Shiism and the development of Shia 'irfan by individuals such as Haydar Amuly, Ibn Turke and Mulla Sadra.'Irfan or Sufism is present in various forms and plays a significant role in contemporary Iran, as there are various forms of mystical education and its methods following the various interests and tendencies. However, despite its rich history, a comprehensive description and analysis of this phenomenon is not yet available. This paper seeks to present a brief but comprehensive and analytic vision of 'irfan in contemporary Iran. This helps students of 'irfan to see different dimensions of the field, as can provide all wayfarers of the path of 'irfan with a candle.