Thinking, and its Individual and Social Functions in the Practical Mysticism from the Viewpoint of Nahj al-Balagha

Thought is a dynamic force for obtaining facts, and thinking is the endeavor of this force based on reason and wisdom. In practical mysticism, which is a coherent plan for the human perfection, thinking has a high impact on the seekers, because thinking can lead man to perfection and happiness. Using an inferential method, this paper seeks to examine the status and the individual and social functions of thinking in practical mysticism from the perspective of Nahj al-Balagha. The findings show that, thinking is the best way for the seeker to reach God, since it has features such as awaking, guiding towards God, helping others and enjoining good and forbidding evil.