Characteristics and Epistemological Factors of Mystical Knowledge from the Perspective of Imam Khomeini (RA)

Abstract

The present study aims to explain the characteristics and epistemological factors of mystical knowledge from the perspective of Imam Khomeini (RA). This research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach based on the examination of Imam Khomeini’s mystical, ethical, and devotional works. The findings indicate that mystical knowledge in Imam Khomeini’s thought is presential, intuitive, heart-based, and existential. It goes beyond conceptual and acquired knowledge and is realized through self-purification, adherence to Sharia, presence of heart, remembrance, worship, and inner struggle. From Imam Khomeini’s perspective, reason has a preparatory and guiding role in mystical knowledge, but access to ultimate truth becomes possible only through spiritual witnessing and inner purification. Authentic mystical knowledge does not contradict Sharia; rather, it gains meaning within the framework of revelation, servitude, and religious ethics. The most important factors in attaining this knowledge include divine nature, reason, the heart, revelation, Sharia, self-purification, remembrance, and righteous action. Conversely, self-love, heedlessness, ignorance, prejudice, sensual desires, attachment to the world, blind imitation, and weakness of will are among the main obstacles to mystical knowledge. The study concludes that Imam Khomeini’s mystical epistemology offers a comprehensive model of knowledge in which cognition, ethics, Sharia, and human perfection are deeply interconnected.