The Principles of Practical Mysticism

The subject of this book is the study of the principles and rules on which practical mysticism in Islam is based, and the way of life and conduct of seekers and devotees of the path of wisdom are regulated based on it. Also, the basis of the Soluk (Pilgrim’s Progress) in Islamic mysticism, the instructions and way of life of the great mystics of the Islamic world and most of the Sufi dynasties are analyzed by presenting related examples. The book covers the following topics: the ontological and anthropological foundations of practical mysticism, the distinction between practical mysticism and morality and practical wisdom, the distinction between Shari'a, the Tariqa(path), and Haqiqa (truth), mystical ethics and its three stages (ethics before Soluk, during Soluk, after Soluk), historical periods of practical mysticism and the relationship between Shiism and mysticism, Pilgrim’s Progress, goals and principles, mystical levels (especially the two levels of repentance and love), meditation techniques and falloffs of Soluk, and finally the historical and social institutions of mysticism.