Knowledge Quote by Franz Rosenthal
““Knowledge,” which for al-Qônawî is never very far from Sufi gnosis, is “an abstract universal reality,” or “a single universal reality.” In contrast to rational knowledge, no perception-and-apperception (tasawwur/tasdîq) is involved in the visionary knowledge of the mystic, as believed by the great mass, but only perception. The Qur- ân is “the form of the knowl- edge that comprises the variety of possible conditions affecting existing things,” or it is the form of the divine attribute of knowledge.85 Another aspect of Muslim theology was thus invaded by logic in a rather intui- tive, unsystematic manner which, however, further shows the desire to divert the powerful current of thought centering around “knowledge” into special channels.””
About This Quote
Source Book: History of Islamic Philosophy, Franz Rosenthal, 1970
The passage contrasts mystical, intuitive knowledge with rational, analytical knowledge, noting that divine knowledge is perceived directly without logical mediation.
In simple terms: Mystical knowledge is direct perception of divine truth, unlike rational analysis.
Key Takeaway
Seek direct insight beyond mere reasoning.
Themes
mysticism
knowledge
theology
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- spiritual practice
- theological study
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
intuition
divine perception
philosophy of mind
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance intuition with reason?
- What role does direct perception play in faith?
A Different Perspective
Rational analysis may miss the depth of experiential truth.
![“I never knew any man who had once tasted the sweetness of experimental knowledge, that ever afterward fasted after ye Vapour garlick and onions of phantasmatical seeming philosophy." [William Petty]” quote by Carl Zimmer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e5a/carl-zimmer-16331_knowledge_i-never-knew-any-man-who-had-once-tasted_1770.jpg)
