Shi`a Pajoohi

Shi`a Pajoohi

Ṭayy al-Arḍ from a Religious and Mystical Perspective

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Tahereh Mirzaei 1
Mohammad Mahdi Alimardi 2
Mohammad Rohani 3
Amir Javan Araste 3
1 PhD student, Sufism and Mysticism, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Religions and Mysticism, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
3 Assistant professor, Department of Religions and Mysticism, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
Abstract
Islamic mysticism, as a path to uncovering absolute truth and tapping into the hidden capacities of humanity, manifests through the concepts of ṭayy al-arḍ (folding up of the earth or traversing the earth without moving) and karāma (divine grace) in the mystical journey. Karāma represents the manifestation of divine power and love, transcending extraordinary acts to symbolize the spiritual perfection and elevation of the human soul. Ṭayy al-arḍ, as a formal revelation, is an emblem of the mystical journey, allowing the transcendence of material boundaries and entry into realms of knowledge. These concepts are not intended to prove or explain the physical mechanics of ṭayy al-arḍ, but are viewed as outward expressions of spiritual growth, the manifestation of divine names in the hearts of mystics, and stages in the progression of human perfection. A review of religious, philosophical, and mystical texts clarifies the role of these elements in achieving unity of existence and spiritual evolution. Thus, karāma and ṭayy al-arḍ are seen as tools for a deeper understanding and connection to divine truth in the mystical life, leading to human perfection and proximity to God. Despite the prominence of these concepts, there has been little profound research on their philosophical and mystical foundations or their roles. This article aims to thoroughly examine the role of these concepts in the mystical journey and in attaining divine knowledge.
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Keywords
Islamic mysticism
karāma
ṭayy al-arḍ
divine knowledge
Subjects
The Noble Quran.
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