Ranks of Existence

The natural cycle of the universe starts with existence and the first translation of divine existence is manifest as light. This light is transformed to soul and is manifest in the realm of soul. This manifestation emerges in the realm of love. Up to this stage, God’s unique existence is constant. But afterwards, wisdom appears as manifestation of love that reaches plurality and frees love from oneness. Then, wisdom is reduced to a lower rank: the rank of self. Self is the pinnacle of plurality and dispersion of existence. If man is able to differentiate forces of existence, he can reach the pinnacle of divine virtues, and this is the perfect man. He is the collection of divine virtues and names. In the next stage, after being emptied of human virtues, he enters the stage of fana (lost in God) and then reaches baghabellah (survived with God). This is the very existence of His Highness.