The Method of Explaining The Tradition and Disposition of Mysticism: Case Study of Aziz Nasafi

In order to realize the research goals in mystical research, it is necessary to adopt a methodology that is scientific and consistent with the nature of that field. One of the basic issues in mystical research is the recognition of the mystical tradition and disposition of every mystic. In fact, the first and most urgent step in the mystical studies seems to be to explain the tradition and disposition of the mystics. Unfortunately, in spite of numerous researches on mysticism and Sufism, no research has ever been done in this area.
In this article, we attempt to provide a method for explaining the mystical tradition and disposition, according to the nature of Islamic mysticism. In this method, four pillars (the goal and the end, method, themes and the concepts, and educational system) are identified for the mystical tradition and, three axes paths, themes and concepts, educational system) are determined for mystical disposition. According to these pillars and axes, it is possible to explain the mystic tradition and disposition of a mystic. In addition, in this paper, the method is applied as an example for the case of Aziz bin Mohammad Nasafi. Nasafi has tried to choose a path between the two mystical traditions. Accordingly, he adheres to the second tradition in principles and fundamentals, while he follows the first mystical tradition in subordinate issues. His mystical disposition is also based on his master’s mystical disposition, which is of course accompanied with his initiatives in the areas of conduct and ontology.