Definition
Al-Ḥaẓarātu ʾL-K͟Hams (الحضرات الخمس) translates to “the five divine presences.” These five levels of existence are used by Sufi mystics to illustrate various states of being, from the unknowable essence of God to the physical and spiritual realms.
Etymology
The term is derived from the Arabic roots:
- أل (Al): The definite article (“the”)
- حضرات (Ḥaẓaratu): the presences/plural of “ḥaẓra” (presence)
- خمس (K͟Hams): “five”
Background
In Sufism, the esoteric dimension of Islam, understanding the layered structure of existence is pivotal. “Al-Ḥaẓarātu ʾL-K͟Hams” is crucial in grasping how Islamic mystics perceive and interact with the metaphysical realms. This conceptual framework was extensively discussed in classical texts like Kitābu ʾt-Taʿrifāt and provides a schematic understanding of the cosmos that a Sufi adherent can reflect upon during their spiritual journey.
Cultural Variations
While the concept of multi-faceted existence is common within Sufi circles, interpretations and emphases may differ depending on the Sufi order or geographic region. Similar esoteric classifications can be found in other spiritual traditions, like the Cabalistic Tree of Life in Jewish mysticism or the different planes of existence in Hinduism and Buddhism.
Synonyms
- Divine Existences
- Spiritual Realms
Antonyms
- Materialism
- Physical World
Related Terms with Definitions
- Sufism: Islamic mysticism focusing on the inward search for God and emphasizing the unity of being.
- Wahdat al-Wujud (وحدة الوجود): “Unity of Existence,” a Sufi metaphysical doctrine asserting the oneness of all being.
- Haqq (الحق): “The Truth,” a term referring to God as the ultimate reality.
Five Divine Presences
- Ḥaẓratu ʾl-g͟haibi ʾl-mut̤laq: The Abundance of Absolute Unseen (God).
- Ḥaẓratu ʾsh-shahādati ʾl-mut̤laqah: The Manifestation of the Absolute Witness (celestial and terrestrial beings).
- Ḥaẓratu ʿālami ʾl-arwāḥ: The World of Spirits and Angels.
- Ḥaẓratu ʿālami ʾl-mis̤āl: The Symbolic World or Imaginal Realm that reflects earthly existences.
- Ḥaẓratu ʾl-jāmīʿah: The Collective Existences, representing the integration of the previous four presences.
Exciting Facts
- A Mystical Journey: Sufis undergo various stages of spiritual development aiming to reach the Divine Essence, akin to traversing through these presences.
- Imaginal World: The ‘Ālam al-Mithal’ or Imaginal World, delineates a realm where spiritual truths manifest symbolically.
Quotes
“Sufi mysticism is defined by its commitment to elevating the spirit from the mundane to the transcendent, navigating through divine presences uncharted by the ordinary eye.” - Ibn Arabi
Suggested Literature for Further Studies
- The Language of God: Sufism and the Mystics of Islam by Richard Taylor
- Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam by Alexander Knysh
- The Symbolic World: Understanding Reality for a Sufi by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
- Journey through the Five Divine Presences by Amina Al-Fahad
Venturing through the fascinating depths of Sufi mysticism, our journey through the five divine presences opens a vibrant new perspective on existence. With each layer unveiling a richer understanding of the divine, we are reminded that spirituality is an unending voyage.
Keep exploring, dear reader, as each pursuit of knowledge brings a step closer to the divine.
Farewell, and may your path be always illuminated by wisdom.
—Jamal Uddin, October 2023
