A Study of Humanistic Elements in the Attitude of Abu-Saeed Abolkheir

Abu-Said was one of the greatest mystics of Persian mysticism. Humanism and affection to all men and creatures were among his most prominent characteristics. This study is an effort to examine the sources that inspired his conception toward human, and also tries to identify his manner in dealing with different layers of society and social classes. The results of this research indicated that Abu-Said admired and respected all men irrespective of their color, gender, ethnicity and religion. The most salient factors which influenced this humanistic manner were Quran, the Prophet’s Sunnah, and his masters (the four great mystics namely Bayazid Bastami, Mansur Halaj, Abol-Abas Ghasab Amoli, and Abol-Hasan Kharghani). According to Sohravardi, all these masters followed Khosrovani wisdom of ancient Iran. Abu-Said has been considered as the crux of the mysticism before him. Affection and love toward people were conspicuous aspects in the manners of Abu-Said. To him, happiness and prosperity of people are of prime significance and must be considered as ethical principles.