ساناز کاظمی

The concept of the soul's abstraction in Islamic philosophy is a fundamental topic that has a profound impact on mystical journey and spiritual evolution. This article examines and analyzes the teachings of Avicenna and Mulla Sadra regarding the abstraction of the soul, comparing the influence of this concept on the mystical journey in their respective philosophical systems. Avicenna, with a rational approach, considers the soul as an independent and inherently abstract substance that inherently possesses the capability to comprehend intelligible forms and attain truth. He emphasizes the importance of reason and intellect in the mystical journey and regards the soul's abstraction as the key to entering the intellectual realm. In contrast, Mulla Sadra, employing the theory of substantial motion, views the soul's abstraction as a gradual process achieved through self-purification and practical mysticism. He highlights the significance of mystical experiences and devotional practices in attaining the soul's abstraction and spiritual perfection. The results of this study indicate that while both philosophers acknowledge the importance of the soul's abstraction in spiritual evolution, they propose different paths to achieve it. These differences reflect the diversity in Islamic philosophical approaches and offer multiple strategies for spiritual self-development. In conclusion, it is suggested that future research delve deeper into this concept within other philosophical schools and explore its impact on psychological and social dimensions.