A Comparative Study of Various Meanings and Scopes of `Irfán in the Works of Ibn `Arabí and in the Bahá’í Writings

Abstract

The purpose of this presentation is to provide a comprehensive study of the concept of `Irfán and its various stages in the works of Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi born in Murcia, Al-Andalus, in 1165 as is compared with the same concepts in the works of Central Figures of the Bahá'í Faith. In particular we will examine the themes such as Vahadat al-Wajud, `Irfán Afaghí as is compared with `Irfán Anfusií, Insán-i- Kámel, the interpretation of the tradition 'Man `Arafa Nafsah `Arafa Rabbeh' and the meaning of "It is He who is revealed in every face, sought in every sign, gazed upon by every eye, worshipped in every object of worship, and pursued in the unseen and the visible. Not a single one of His creatures can fail to find Him in its primordial and original nature" (Futí�hí�t al-Makkiyya)