Iranian philosophy

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Iranian Philosophy

Iranian philosophy refers to the philosophical traditions and ideas that have emerged from the region historically known as Persia, now modern-day Iran. This rich intellectual tradition spans several millennia, encompassing a wide range of philosophical schools and movements, from ancient Zoroastrian thought to contemporary Iranian philosophical discourse.

Historical Overview

Ancient Iranian Philosophy

The roots of Iranian philosophy can be traced back to the ancient Zoroastrian religion, founded by the prophet Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) around the 6th century BCE. Zoroastrianism introduced concepts such as the duality of good and evil, the importance of individual choice, and the idea of a cosmic order, or "Asha." These ideas influenced not only Iranian thought but also other philosophical traditions, including Greek philosophy.

Medieval Islamic Philosophy

During the Islamic Golden Age, Iranian philosophers played a crucial role in the development of Islamic philosophy. Notable figures include Avicenna (Ibn Sina), whose works on metaphysics and medicine were highly influential, and Al-Farabi, who sought to harmonize Greek philosophy with Islamic thought. Avicenna's "The Book of Healing" and "The Canon of Medicine" were seminal works that shaped both philosophical and scientific discourse.

Safavid and Qajar Periods

In the Safavid era, Iranian philosophy saw a resurgence of interest in Shi'a Islam and the development of the School of Isfahan, led by philosophers such as Mulla Sadra. Mulla Sadra's "Transcendent Theosophy" or "al-Hikmah al-Muta'aliyah" introduced the concept of "substantial motion" and emphasized the unity of existence.

Modern and Contemporary Iranian Philosophy

In the 20th century, Iranian philosophy was influenced by Western philosophical movements, leading to a unique synthesis of ideas. Prominent modern Iranian philosophers include Ahmad Fardid, who introduced the concept of "Westoxification," and Ali Shariati, who sought to reinterpret Islamic thought in the context of modernity and social justice.

Key Concepts

Dualism

A central theme in Iranian philosophy, particularly in Zoroastrianism, is the dualistic nature of existence, characterized by the eternal struggle between good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (Angra Mainyu).

The Unity of Being

Mulla Sadra's philosophy emphasized the "unity of being," suggesting that all existence is interconnected and emanates from a single source.

Hikmah (Wisdom)

The pursuit of wisdom, or "hikmah," is a recurring theme in Iranian philosophy, reflecting a deep commitment to understanding the nature of reality and the divine.

Influence and Legacy

Iranian philosophy has had a profound impact on both Eastern and Western thought. The works of Iranian philosophers have been studied and respected across cultures, contributing to fields such as metaphysics, ethics, and epistemology.

Also see

• Zoroastrianism
• Islamic philosophy
• Avicenna
• Mulla Sadra
• Persian literature