Ibn Arabi: The Philosopher of Sufism and the Unity of Existence
Ibn Arabi: The Philosopher of Sufism and the Unity of Existence
Introduction
Ibn Arabi, full name Muḥyi al-Dīn Muḥammad ibn ʿAlī ibn Muḥammad ibn ʿArabī al-Ṭāʾī al-Ḥātimī al-Andalusī, is one of the greatest philosophers of Sufism and the concept of the Unity of Existence. He is often referred to as "Al-Sheikh Al-Akbar."
Early Life and Background
Born in Murcia, Andalusia, on the seventeenth day of Ramadan (or the twenty-sixth day of Tammuz) in the year 1165 CE, Ibn Arabi grew up in a prestigious family deeply rooted in scholarship, piety, and Sufism.
Education and Travels
Ibn Arabi received exceptional education in Arabic and other sciences, studying under the greatest scholars of Andalusia in his era. He later traveled to various Arab countries, where he met with many scholars and literary figures and learned from them.
Key Works
Ibn Arabi authored numerous books on Sufism and philosophy, among the most famous are:
"Al-Futuhat al-Makkiyah" (The Meccan Revelations): This book delves into his philosophical and Sufi ideas, particularly the theory of the Unity of Existence.
"Fusus al-Hikam" (The Bezels of Wisdom): Another work in Sufi philosophy, it explores his philosophical and Sufi ideas, especially the theory of the Unity of Existence.
"Al-ʿAwāṣim min al-Qawāṣim" (The Book of Conquests): This book also deals with Sufism and contains his philosophical ideas, particularly the theory of the Unity of Existence.
Notable Qualities
Ibn Arabi was distinguished by several qualities, including:
Intelligence and Genius: Ibn Arabi was one of the most brilliant scholars of his time, excelling in both Sufism and philosophy. He authored numerous books in these fields.
Proficiency in Philosophical Thinking: He was among the early scholars who integrated philosophical thinking into the study of Islamic Sufism.
Analytical and Synthetical Skills: Ibn Arabi possessed the ability to analyze and synthesize complex Sufi philosophical ideas, providing logical interpretations.
Legacy
Ibn Arabi left a significant impact on Sufi thought, particularly in the development and dissemination of the concept of the Unity of Existence. He enjoyed a prominent place in the hearts of Sufi enthusiasts, being considered one of the greatest Sufi philosophers throughout history.
Opinions on Ibn Arabi
Supporting Views
Supporters of Ibn Arabi believe he is one of the greatest Sufi philosophers, with deep and valuable ideas. They point to his writings, which tackle important philosophical and mystical issues, such as the theory of the Unity of Existence.
Opposing Views
Opponents of Ibn Arabi argue that his ideas are incorrect and contrary to Islamic teachings. They take issue with some of his concepts, especially the theory of the Unity of Existence, which they see as diverging from the monotheism of Islam.
Ibn Taymiyyah's Stance on Ibn Arabi
Ibn Taymiyyah was one of the most prominent critics of Ibn Arabi and strongly criticized his ideas. He wrote a book titled "Bayan Talbis al-Jahmiyyah fi Ta'sis Bid'atihim al-Kalamiyyah" in which he refutes Ibn Arabi's ideas.
Ibn Taymiyyah believed that Ibn Arabi's theory of the Unity of Existence was a false innovation that contradicted Islamic monotheism. He argued that this theory led to the assertion that God is the created existence and the created existence is God, which was contrary to Islamic monotheism (Tawhid).
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References
- Wikipedia, "Ibn Arabi."
- Ibn Arabi, "Al-Futuhat al-Makkiyah."
- Ibn Arabi, "Fusus al-Hikam."
- Ibn Arabi, "Al-ʿAwāṣim min al-Qawāṣim."