The Philosophical-Mystical Knowledge and its Role in Deepening Religiosity

Worldview, meaning fundamental attitudes towards the world and human beings, affects different ideological, moral and spiritual dimensions of the individual and society. Including multiple layers of knowledge, religious worldview is more comprehensive and coherent than alternative views. The intellectual and esoteric aspect of knowledge is one of the pillars of Islam. Excessive literalism has reduced the Shari'a and its aims to some certain meaningless movements and rituals. On the other hand, excessive esotericism has rejected religious practices and rituals as worthless superficial acts. In the midst of these extremes, is it possible to explain the esoteric aspect of knowledge with a logical and reasonable view? External and internal layer protect and support one another; can the religious community benefit from both layers? Can it be claimed that this rational, esoteric, purpose-oriented and functionalist aspect is able to elevate religious beliefs and actions from the surface to broader horizons? Using analytical method and presenting an example, the present paper gives a positive answer to the aforementioned question. It deals with the role of mystical-philosophical discourse in deepening religiosity and shows how propagating a philosophical attitude with a rationaland logical interpretation of religion prevents one from falling into the abyss of literalism and sensationalism. The findings show that promoting mystical discourse with a moderate explanation of the esoteric aspect of knowledge changes one’s spiritual and moral attitude, draws attention to the inner reality, spirit and purpose of actions, and is effective in deepening the behavioral and emotional dimension of religion.