Ibnu Arabi

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Norsanina.blogspot.com
Major points of difference and similarity between Ibn Arabi and Al-Ghazali


1. View on Knowledge
Al-Ghazali: Knowledge should begin with reason and theology but must lead to direct experience of Allah through purification of the soul. He combined logic, philosophy, and spirituality



Ibn Arabi: Placed stronger emphasis on mystical unveiling (direct experience, kashf) over rational thought. He believed true knowledge comes through divine illumination, beyond reason





2. Mysticism (Tasawwuf)


Al-Ghazali: Saw Sufism as the path to inner certainty but always within the boundaries of Shariah (Islamic law). He balanced law, theology, and mysticism



Ibn Arabi: Went deeper into mystical interpretations, often writing in symbolic or metaphorical language. His ideas sometimes seemed beyond traditional boundaries





3. Concept of God and Existence
Al-Ghazali: Allah is the ultimate Reality, utterly distinct from creation. Humans can know Him only through His signs and names



Ibn Arabi: Famous for the doctrine of Wahdat al-Wujud (Unity of Being) — meaning all existence reflects Allah’s reality. Everything is a manifestation of the One



4. Approach to Philosophy


Al-Ghazali: Critic of Greek philosophy (like Avicenna/Aristotle). He said philosophy cannot explain ultimate truths like resurrection, creation, or prophecy



Ibn Arabi: Less concerned with rejecting philosophy; more focused on spiritual cosmology (how the universe mirrors divine reality)



5. Practical Focus


Al-Ghazali: Very practical and reformist — his Ihya’ Ulum al-Din teaches how ordinary Muslims can purify their heart and live closer to Allah



Ibn Arabi: More abstract and mystical — his writings (like Fusus al-Hikam) are difficult, full of metaphors and symbols, often for advanced seekers







✅ In summary:


Al-Ghazali = Balance → law, theology, Sufism, practical guidance



Ibn Arabi = Mystical depth → symbolic, metaphysical, unity of being

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