Contents
Mulla Sadra
Developing a philosophy centred on existence and substantial motion.
The Four Journeys · Primacy of existence
- Born
- c. 1571
- Birthplace
- Shiraz, Iran
- Died
- Unknown
More people
Mulla Sadra
Persian philosopher whose work brought together Islamic philosophy, theology and spiritual insight.
Early life
Shiraz origins
Was born in Shiraz in the later sixteenth century; details of his early life remain uncertain.
Scholarly training
Studied in Safavid intellectual centres and learned from figures including Mir Damad.
Career
- Late sixteenth century
Philosophical study
Developed his thought within the scholarly world of Safavid Iran.
- Early seventeenth century
Retreat and writing
Spent a period near Qom associated with reflection and major writing.
- Later life
Teaching in Shiraz
Returned to teach and elaborate his philosophical system.
Ideas & writings
The Four Journeys
A major synthesis of metaphysics and spiritual inquiry.
Primacy of existence
Argued that existence is more fundamental than abstract essences.
Substantial motion
Understood change as reaching into the very being of physical things.
Beyond work
Spiritual practice
Connected philosophical understanding with moral and contemplative discipline.
Uncertain chronology
Traditional accounts of his travels and death do not always agree.
Sources & photo credit
Biography and references ↗Biography and contributions ↗Photo: Hooman Mallahzadeh; photograph of a modern sculptural depiction. CC BY-SA 4.0 · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
