Sanai's Concept of the Temporal Lateness of Intellect and Humanity
Overview
In Section 39 of the Hadiqat al-Haqiqah, Sanai outlines a fundamental Sufi psychological and ontological principle: the highest human and cosmic faculties—namely, the intellect ('aql) and true religion or faith (din)—are the last to manifest chronologically, despite being the ultimate purpose of creation.
Key Principles
- Temporal Lateness (Ta'akhkhur-e Zamani): In human development, passion (hava) and natural disposition (tab') develop first. The invitation of the intellect (da'wat-e 'aql) is the final stage to emerge.
- Pedagogical Analogy: Sanai compares this progression to a young girl who first plays with a doll (lu'bat) before eventually growing up to desire a real child (farzand). The lower stage serves as a necessary prerequisite and preparation for the higher.
- Cosmic and Natural Order: Just as flowers bloom before the nightingale sings, the physical and biological realm must be fully established before spiritual and intel...
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Humanities
Literature
Persian Literature Prerequisite Course
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