A comparative analysis of Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Attar's seven mystical valleys from the Conference of the Birds reveals structural similarities in the human journey from basic needs toward meaning, unity, and self-transcendence, despite their different origins in modern humanistic psychology and Islamic-Persian mysticism. The analysis preserves epistemological distinctions while highlighting parallel stages of inner evolution. A comparative table provides an overview of each stage. The findings suggest that mystical wayfaring in Islamic mysticism can, with conceptual boundaries preserved, be interpreted as convergent with the psychological path of self-actualization, opening a pathway for interdisciplinary dialogue between psychology and mysticism.
Mystical experiences involve a direct awareness of God or transcendent truth, attained through meditation, seclusion, remembrance, asceticism, and divine love. They arise from detachment from worldly dependencies and deep internal focus, leading to a sense of unity with the universe. The key factor is the removal of physical veils from perception. Common features include ineffability, passivity, epistemic quality, and transience. Manifestations appear in behavior, speech, and works. Outcomes include a shifted perspective on life, increased tranquility, and detachment from materialism. The study uses a descriptive-analytical method, focusing on three works by ʿAyn al-Quḍāt to examine the nature of mystical experiences and ways of recognizing epistemic experiences.