Comparatively study of the mystical approach of Saint Benedict and Khajeh Abdullah Ansari

In this essay, the type of mysticism of Saint Benedict as one of the most important Christian monastic and mystical personalities and Khajeh Abdullah Ansari has been comparatively studied. This research has been done by descriptive-analytical method focusing on the book of The Rule of St. Benedict and Stations of the Wayfarer (Manazil Al-Sa'erin) from Khajeh Abdullah Ansari. By analyzing the mystical texts of these two mystical personalities, it is obtained that both are practical mysticism which is based on Master (sheikh), as well as believing in Unity of existence and concerning Shariah law. Benedictine mysticism is also a mystical monasticism and insist on way of love; But the mysticism of Khajeh is not monastic and has a combination of drunkenness (sukr) than of sobriety (sahw). In terms of mystical level, Benedict's mysticism is suitable for beginners; But Khajeh in Manazil Al-Sa'erin has expressed the comprehensive behavior plan from the beginning to the highest level.