The Influence of the Concept of the Unity of Existence on Sufi Poetry

Abstract

There is no doubt that the essence of Islamic thought is the principle of monotheism and the belief in the phrase "There is no god but Allah." But what is the true meaning of this fundamental Islamic tenet? Individuals and groups have each interpreted "monotheism" based on their level of understanding and knowledge of God, and their capabilities. The common interpretation of monotheism is the denial of any partner to the divine essence. However, according to some Sufis, monotheism has a particularly intriguing concept; for them, monotheism is not merely the denial of a partner to the divine essence or any equality to His attributes or assistance in existential acts. Instead, the foundation of monotheism, in their view, is the denial of any existence other than God's, which they have termed the concept of (Unity of Existence).

This concept of the Unity of Existence entered Persian Sufi poetry through many Sufi poets who were influenced by it and began to explore and promote it in their poems. In this research, the researcher seeks to answer the following questions: What is the concept of the Unity of Existence? Who is the founder of the concept of the Unity of Existence? What is the stance of religious scholars and Sufi masters on the concept of the Unity of Existence? Has Persian Sufi poetry in Iran been influenced by the concept of the Unity of Existence? What are the main ideas and beliefs resulting from the concept of the Unity of Existence?