By Mukhtar Hi Ali, academia.edu
This paper advances a new epistemology of hikma (wisdom) by reexamining its function as a foundational mode of knowing in the Islamic tradition.
Keith: This theory of knowledge, “epistemology”, is the mystic experience of Reality that is and has been present in everything everywhere, then, now and forever.
Drawing upon Qurʾānic usage, prophetic sayings, classical philosophical definitions, and Sufi insights, the study argues that ḥikma is not merely eloquent or ethical speech, but a self-evident and sublime truth that transcends syllogistic reasoning and formal logic.
Keith: Absolutely!
As a self-authenticating criterion, hikma operates as a touchstone for discerning the truth of propositions across disciplines—ethics, law, theology, and metaphysics.
Keith: This needs to be said constantly across every human thought, expression and mental construct.
It is shown to be the end of discursive knowledge, the beginning of inner realization, and the principle that reconciles reason and revelation.
Keith: This “principle” being the Reality experienced by the mystics. But Reality Itself is not interested in human reason. Any “revelation” of Reality can only be made by Reality if actual mystic experience rather than mind work is anything to go by.
In proposing a metaphysical and existential framework of hikma, this study positions wisdom as both the spirit of the law and the luminous measure by which all knowledge is ultimately validated.
Keith: “The law” presumably refers to the religions and ideologies created by human minds and is therefore spiritually invalid. The Reality we’re taking abut here is not a mere human utility. It instructs. It does not bargain.
The full 387 page paper can be downloaded at academia.edu
Mystical Experiences of Reality 