The sources and obstacles of direct and indirect recognitions from the viewpoint of the Quran

Recognition is one of the most favored topics to discuss in Islamic studies. It is also of great importance in other fields of study. Basically, recognition is of two types, direct and indirect. To learn the sources and obstacles of these two types is a great concern. In this regard, the Quran can be of help. The book gives hints to the characteristics of these two kinds of recognition and refers to their sources and obstacles. Using a descriptive-analytic method, the present study analyzes the corresponding parts of the Quran with the result that the Book makes a distinction between the ways these two recognitions are gained. According to it, direct recognition regards the reality or the obvious self of things, while indirect recognition stems from the appearance of the things around. The Book also introduces certain sources with which to gain each recognition type. It is understood from the verses that man is born with no indirect recognition but he has some sort of innate direct perception. An example of the latter is self-awareness. From the point of view of the Quran, the sources of recognition at the disposal of man are nature, reason, history and heart. The obstacles to recognition have been deemed to be dependence on physical senses, imitation of the past people and following one’s whims and desires.