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Thinking Thinking is passing from the false to the true…

“Thinking Thinking is passing from the false to the true and seeing the Absolute Whole in the part. When the idea enters the mind, it is a reminiscence of a former state, and passes on to interpretation. . . . He who sees by illumination discerns God first in everything. But he who sees by logic…” quote by Sa'd Ud Din Mahmud Shabistari
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““Thinking Thinking is passing from the false to the true and seeing the Absolute Whole in the part. When the idea enters the mind, it is a reminiscence of a former state, and passes on to interpretation. . . . He who sees by illumination discerns God first in everything. But he who sees by logic only, and seeks to prove the necessary, is bewildered and sometimes travels backward in a circle, or is imprisoned in a chain of proofs. Fool! He seeks the dazzling sun by the dim light of a candle in the desert.””

Sa'd Ud Din Mahmud Shabistari

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True understanding moves from false to true, seeing the whole in parts, while pure illumination reveals God; logic alone can trap you in endless proof.

In simple terms: Illumination reveals truth; logic can trap.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper insight beyond logic.

Themes

philosophy spirituality knowledge logic illumination

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • spiritual practice
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

metaphysics epistemology theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does illumination differ from reasoning?
  • What is the “Absolute Whole”?
A Different Perspective

Pure logic may not capture experiential truth.

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