A Review of Ibn ‘Arabī's Interpretation of ‘Arsh in Light of Transcendental Philosophy and its Application in Religious Architecture

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Doctorate student of Islamic Mysticism, Ᾱzād Islamic University, Tehran and science research section

2 * Associate professor of the Department of Philosophy, Ᾱzād Islamic University, Tehran

Abstract

Abstract
This article endeavors to explain the real and metaphorical meaning of the Qurʼānic term «‘Arsh» (throne) while analyzing its reality and endeavors to study the interpretation of ‘Arsh, the topic of God's establishment on the ‘Arsh and its relationship with the perfect human being in the words of Ibn ‘Arabī and Shi‘ite Imāms and the commentary of the Transcendental Philosophy commentators of the word ‘Arsh in verses of the Qurʼān; it then addresses the explanation of the terms ‘arsheh (deck), ārkeh (arch) and ārkheh (latin for arche). In reality, the same way that the word «‘Arsh» in the Qurʼān refers to the throne of Allāh which is the origin of origins of creation, in its real meaning, it has also been used metaphorically (like for example: jannātun ma‘rūshāt i.e. the ceiling of houses). The word arche was also used to indicate the origin of creation in Greek philosophy and also refers to niche or ledge in the art of architecture. In answer to the question of why the word «‘Arsh» has been used in different meanings, one can say – according to the principle of hierarchy of existence in Transcendental Philosophy – that the reality of ‘Arsh in each level of the levels of existence, has a manifestation in accordance to that reality and the earthly manifestation of ‘Arsh in the world is in the form of mosques and places of worship, and in the souls, is in the physical existence of the Prophets and Imams and consequently in the human beings who follow them.

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References

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Journal of Philosophical Theological Research
Volume 20, Issue 2 - Serial Number 76
Articles
June 2018
Pages 95-118

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