Exploring Epic Elements in Suhrawardi's Aql-i Surkh Treatise

In the works of Persian Sufis and mystics, alongside national, historical, and religious epics, there exist mystical epics as well. These mystical epics feature the holy traveler (sālek), who, like the hero of the epic, continually faces conflicts with his/her hidden devil or carnal soul. In Suhrawardi's treatise, Aql-i Surkh (The Red Intellect), the author employs symbolic language to depict the soul's entrapment within the body's prison, and through the words of a wise old man, he illustrates the intricate twists and turns of the path towards spiritual rediscovery.
The current research, utilizing an analytical-descriptive method, examines the epic elements present within Aql-i Surkh. This analysis reveals the mystical-epic components embedded within the treatise. The study's findings suggest that epic components and symbols, such as the struggle between good and evil, the journey, the Haftkhān (Seven Labours), the need for a wise old man's companionship during Haftkhān, Mount Qaf, Simorgh, epic warriors, Jam-e Giti-nama, weapons, and the Water of Life, imbue the treatise with a distinct mystical-epic flavor.