Comparative Mysticism from the Perspective of ‘Allāmah Ṭabāṭabā’ī

‘Allāmah Ṭabāṭabā’ī is a thinker who has shown great interest in comparative studies of mysticism. The foundation of ‘Allāmah's studies in this field is the existence of the innate monotheistic religion as the root of all religions, and the existence of an innate inclination and insight as the principle of all mysticisms. He considers self-knowledge (ma'rifat al-nafs) in the realm of spiritual journey (sulūk) as a common spiritual method among all Muslim and non-Muslim mystics, tracing its roots in human nature (fiṭrah). ‘Allāmah believes that due to the egoistic desires or the neglect of the seeker from some monotheistic foundations, the method of self-knowledge has deviated from its main path in some mystical schools. Instead of being a path for the seeker (sālik) to attain knowledge (ma’rifah) of God, it has been perceived independently, causing the seeker to deviate from reaching the goal of knowing the Lord. In the realm of knowledge (ma’rifah), ‘Allāmah sees the ultimate goal of mysticism as proximity of the ultimate truth and attainment of existential self-subsisting monotheism. He argues that manifestations of this monotheism can be observed in the sacred texts of other religions as well, although here too in some schools, deviations have occurred in this monotheistic perception due to the general incomprehensibility of some teachings, neglecting reason, and substitution of the tradition of servitude. The result of which is that throughout history, polytheistic understandings of these sacred texts are presented. ‘Allāmah Ṭabāṭabā’ī, in his comparative studies in the field of mysticism strives to transcend the superficial and secondary cultural and social levels, and attempts to reach the depth of the mystical truth arising from the innate inclination and insight, which is consistent with the innate monotheistic religion. Alongside, he also pays attention to deviations and damages of mysticism in the realm of knowledge and practice.