MULLA SADRA Meaning and
Definition
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Mulla Sadra, also known as Sadr al-Din Muhammad Shirazi, was a prominent Persian philosopher and one of the most influential figures in Islamic intellectual history. Born in Shiraz, Iran, in the 17th century, Mulla Sadra developed a unique and comprehensive philosophical system known as the Transcendent Philosophy (al-hikmah al-muta'aliyah).
Mulla Sadra's philosophy centered on the concept of existence (wujud). He believed that existence is the ultimate reality and that all beings derive their existence from a single source, which he called the Necessary Being or God. According to Mulla Sadra, the physical world is a manifestation of the divine essence and an expression of the divine attributes.
One of Mulla Sadra's major contributions to philosophy is the idea of the ontological gradation of existence. He posited that existence is not a singular, homogeneous entity but rather consists of different levels or degrees of existence, ranging from pure potentiality to pure actuality. These levels of existence are interconnected and form a hierarchical chain that represents the divine order of creation.
Mulla Sadra's philosophy also emphasized the unity of knowledge and being, arguing that true knowledge is attained through a direct and intuitive experience of existence itself. By engaging in spiritual exercises, meditation, and contemplation, individuals can delve into the depths of their own existence and gain insight into the nature of reality.
Overall, Mulla Sadra's philosophical system has had a profound impact on Islamic philosophy and has influenced scholars and thinkers across various disciplines. His ideas continue to be studied and debated, offering new perspectives on existence, knowledge, and the nature of reality.
Etymology of MULLA SADRA
The word "Mulla Sadra" has its etymology rooted in the Persian language. "Mulla" is an honorific title used in Persia and other Muslim countries to address a scholar or a respected religious figure. It can be roughly translated as "master" or "learned one".
On the other hand, "Sadra" is a Persian word meaning "chest" or "breast". It is derived from the Arabic word "Sadr", which also means "chest" or "bosom". The term "Sadra" has symbolic significance in mystical and philosophical contexts, representing the inner dimension of a person, their heart, or spiritual core.
Therefore, "Mulla Sadra" refers to the honorific title of the prominent Persian philosopher and scholar, Sadr al-Din Muhammad Shirazi (1571-1640).
