Comparative Analysis of the Unity of Existence (Wahdat al Wujud) in Hikmah Mutā‘ālīyah (Transcendental philosophy of Molla Sadra) and Advaita Vedanta Philosophy

Both Islamic philosopher Molla Sadra and Indian philosopher Sankara argue that a single, underlying reality is hidden by a veil of multiplicity, though they draw on different sacred texts—the Quran for Sadra and the Vedas for Sankara. Sadra's Transcendental philosophy explains unity through two theories: gradational unity of existence and individual unity of existence, describing multiplicity within unity and unity within multiplicity. Sankara's Advaita Vedanta non-dualism holds that the individual soul (Atman) is identical to universal consciousness (Brahman) and that the perceived world of multiplicity is an illusion (Maya). The paper explores commonalities and divergences between their systems.

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Abstract

The concept of the unity of existence finds resonance in both Islamic philosophy, particularly in the Transcendental philosophy of Molla Sadra, and the Advaita Vedanta school of Indian philosophy, notably championed by the mystic philosopher Sankara. Molla Sadra's philosophical framework is rooted in the intertwining principles of Multiplicity within Unity and Unity within Multiplicity, (Kathrat fil Wahdat, Wahdat fil Kathrat) elucidated through two key theories: (I) Gradational unity of existence, (Al Wujud Al Tashkiki) and (II) Individual unity of existence. (Wahadat al Shkaksi) Sankara, a mystic philosopher within the Vedanta tradition, expounds upon the unity of existence through non-dualism, positing that Atman (individual soul) is identical to Brahman (universal consciousness). His philosophical stance involves dismantling the perceived realm of multiplicity by invoking the concept of cosmic illusion, referred to as the doctrine of Maya. This paper delves into an exploration of the perspectives of Molla Sadra and Sankara regarding the unity of existence. While both thinkers share the notion that a singular reality is concealed by a metaphorical veil, they each draw inspiration from their respective sacred texts-the Quran for Molla Sadra and the Vedas for Sankara. Consequently, they have formulated comprehensive systems of thought grounded in principles and assertions that invite scrutiny. However, it is essential to note that some disparities exist in their ideas. This paper aims to elucidate the commonalities and divergences between Molla Sadra's and Sankara's philosophies, shedding light on the similarities and polarities inherent in their conceptualizations of the unity of existence.