The Role of the Outer and Inner Aspects of the Holy Quran in ‎Spiritual Elevation with Emphasis on Mystical Conduct

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Ph.D. graduate in Islamic Ethics Teacher Training, University of Islamic Studies, Qom, Iran.‎

10.22081/jsr.2025.69757.1100

Abstract

Spiritual elevation is one of the most significant aspects of a flourishing life from the perspective of divine worldview. Although various paths have been proposed for spiritual elevation, the most reliable and secure way free from deviation is mystical conduct in Islam. On the other hand, the Holy Quran is the most important and reliable religious source in Islam, consistently serving as a reference and refuge for understanding and guidance on the true path to happiness. Therefore, referring to this divine revelation is essential for proper movement on the path of mystical conduct and, consequently, spiritual elevation. The purpose of this study is to examine the various impacts of the external and internal aspects of the Quran on spiritual elevation. The research method is descriptive-analytical, relying on religious, occasionally mystical, and rational evidence. The findings suggest that the external verses of the Holy Quran have a significant impact on both the correct understanding of mystical conduct as a foundation for spiritual elevation and on providing motivation during this path. Furthermore, the internal aspects of the Quran also have various effects on mystical conduct, including terms like removing veils, purifying the inner self, healing spiritual ailments, and enlightening the heart. The effect of the internal Quran on the different stages of mystical conduct, such as faith, piety, repentance, negating thoughts, vigilance, annihilation, and other stages, is also demonstrable. Consequently, it can be asserted that the diverse impacts of both the outer and inner aspects of the Holy Quran on mystical conduct and, consequently, spiritual elevation, are such that spiritual growth and elevation would be impossible without the guidance of the Holy Quran.

Keywords


*The Holy Quran
**Nahj al-Balagha
***Sahifah Sajjadiya
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