A Semantic Analysis of Ibn 'Arabī's Account of Metaphysical Love

Abstract

Abstract:Ibn 'Arabī's (d. 1240 CE) metaphysical conception of love can be understood according to three perspectives: (1) an ontological account of Divine Mercy (raḥma); (2) spiritual knowledge (ma'rifa) and self-knowledge; and (3) the practical dimension of individual intentions and acts of devotion (nawāfil). First, this article will explore Ibn 'Arabī's ontology of divine creative Mercy, in which Love signifies the attraction that draws all creatures back to reunion with their Creator. Ibn 'Arabī's discussions of love always presume the dialectical process of a twofold movement between Creator and creation. Second, this article will show how Love relates to the human understanding of this reality with respect to Ibn 'Arabī's epistemology of reciprocal divine-human Love. According to this epistemology, if love increases in proportion to knowledge, whoever knows God best also loves Him the most. Third, this article explores the reasons that Ibn 'Arabī identifies as the proximate causes of a deeper realization of Love: namely, beauty, beneficence, and prayers and other supererogatory acts of devotion. Throughout this analysis, the experience of Love is viewed as essential to understanding our humanity and our purpose, and ultimately the very reality of God. To love is thus to experience God.