Qualitative and Quantitative Content Analysis of Gulshan-i Raz by Sheikh Mahmoud Shabestari

Gulshan-i Raz is one of the most important texts in theoretical mysticism and the influence of Ibn Arabi’s thoughts on Shabestari is evident in Gulshan-i Raz. This study analyzes the content of Gulshan-i Raz to clarify how the verses could be classified thematically and what the pivotal thought dominating the work is. Since theoretical mysticism is based on theism, anthropology and cosmology, verses are categorized under these three poles. In order to analyze the text, 70% of verses were sampled and it was determined how each verse should be categorized under each pole considering the context of each unit of text. Finally, the frequency of each pole was measured. The results show that discussion about human and the relation between God-human is the most frequent issue in Gulshan-i Raz. This issue is rooted in these factors: firstly, the elevated status of human in the Sublime Qur’an and Hadith; secondly, dependence of theism on human recognition according to Prophetic Hadiths; thirdly, belief in comprehensiveness of human being and perfect man’s function as mediator of grace in theoretical mysticism; and fourthly, the importance of conduct (sulook) to the Sufis and their attempt to eventually become united with God in practical mysticism.