Re-examination of the Factors Generating Will (Irāda) in the Mystical Journey Sulūk): An Analysis Based on the Philosophy of Ibn Sina (Avicenna)

bn Sina (Avicenna) introduces 'Will' (Iraˉda) as the first and most fundamental stage in the gnostic/mystical journey (Suluˉk).

The actualization of the gnostic journey, which is considered one of man's voluntary actions, is dependent on 'Will' (Iraˉda). This will is formed when the soul (Nafs), after perceiving an object and assenting to its benefits, reaches a consensus and decision. Likewise, in the path of mystical Suluˉk, the will is achieved when the soul acknowledges and believes in its benefits and rewards.

Ibn Sina introduces two key factors for attaining this assent, and consequently creating the will for Suluˉk: rational proof (Burhān Aqlıˉ) and faith (Īmān).

This study, adopting an "analytical-descriptive" method and relying on the principles of Ibn Sina's psychology (Ilm al-Nafs), including the immateriality and celestial nature of the soul, the soul's pursuit of pleasure, and the superiority of rational knowledge over sensory knowledge, has elaborated on the factors that create the will in the soul to enter the path of Suluˉk.

The present research, while emphasizing the central role of faith and referencing verses from the Holy Quran in this regard, shows how Ibn Sina's fundamental philosophical and psychological concepts provide the necessary groundwork for the formation of the will and the entry into the path of Suluˉk