Self-Knowledge; A Way to Achieve Transcendental Spirituality

This paper, using rational-analytical method and comparison, addresses the position of self-knowledge in Islamic mysticism to achieve transcendental spirituality, and has referred to agree and disagree positions with new mysticisms on this issue. Self-Knowledge has been expressed in all schools, including divine and human, Islamic and new mysticism. Self-Knowledge is a common element between the two groups with the difference that Self-Knowledge in Islamic mysticism is only a way (not a goal) to achieve transcendent spirituality or the knowledge of God, but in new mysticisms, the purpose of it is worldly works such as inner peace and overcoming on anxieties. Another difference is the way to achieve deep concentration and self-esteem. In the experience of new spirituality, rituals and deeds have nothing to do with religion, but in Islamic mysticism, rituals and deeds are derived from religious orders, which themselves seek peace and rest, but these are not the goal. The goal is attainment of transcendent and divine spirituality. Hence, both groups are common in terms self-knowledge and contemplation, but they are different in terms of the path to self-knowledge and the ultimate goal.