Seeking the Veil of Reality
In the depths of the curriculum, the teachings of Muḥyiddīn Ibn ʿArabī offer a glimpse into the mysterious dance of being and nonbeing. He situates al-Ḥaqq (the Real, i.e., God) beyond both the visible universe and the world of intellect; when al-Ḥaqq and intellect come together, al-Ḥaqq separates from the intellect. This allows us to understand the paradox at the foundation of creation: Created beings, in terms of their nature, accept nonexistence, while in terms of al-Ḥaqq, they embrace existence. This teaching of Ibn ʿArabī invites us on a journey beyond the apparent world, into the depths of reality; for attaining true knowledge is possible only through the sincerity of the qalb (the heart) without turning away from the verses (āyāt).
Nature and al-Ḥaqq: The Great Mother of Creation
In Ibn ʿArabī’s teachings, nature is described as the great and exalted mother of the world; for it is the source of its effects, yet it cannot be directly perceived. Just as the effects of al-Ḥaqq can be seen, but not His essence. This metaphorical expression symbolizes the complexity of creation and our indirect experience of the existence of al-Ḥaqq. While nature is considered a power separate from al-Ḥaqq, it is also a means for His manifestation; therefore, understanding nature can be a bridge to understanding al-Ḥaqq. This opens the door to a relative reality in which being and nonbeing are intertwined.
Furqan: Divine Awareness in the Light of Taqwa
Ibn ʿArabī’s concept of Furqān (discernment) bestows a divine awareness upon the person who possesses taqwa (God-consciousness). Furqān is the ability to distinguish between hudā (guidance) and misguidance; this helps a person find the right path and avoid deviation. The special discernment that taqwa grants to a person enables one to see the differences within the ‘jamʿ’ (union) mentioned in the Qur’an. This union forms the basis for understanding al-Ḥaqq and created beings; for while the servant protects himself from evil deeds through taqwa, he also overcomes difficulties by seeking Allah’s help. Furqān is not only an individual enlightenment, but also a social responsibility.