Entropy as Metaphysical Perplexity in Ibn ‘Arabī’s Sufi Thought
Method & Theory in the Study of Religion October 22, 2025 DOI: 10.1163/15700682-bja10163 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe Sufi theorist Ibn ‘Arabī’s concept of metaphysical perplexity (ḥayra) aligns with the entropic brain hypothesis from neuroscience. The ego, linked to the default mode network (DMN), corresponds to Ibn ‘Arabī’s notion of I-ness (anāniyya). In a secondary state of self-organized criticality (SOC), the ego imposes a reality-filter that creates a metaphysical veil (ḥijāb), blocking perception of the divine reality pervading existence. This veil lifts only in a primary state of criticality, where spiritual unveiling (kashf) reveals divine reality.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Perplexity Metaphysics Perception State computer science Philosophy |
| Key finding | Proposes that Ibn ‘Arabī’s metaphysical perplexity and the entropic brain hypothesis both describe a shift from ego-bound perception to a state where divine or entropic reality is revealed. |
Abstract
Abstract This article investigates how the Sufi theorist Muḥyī al-Dīn ibn ‘Arabī’s (d. 638/1240) conception of metaphysical perplexity ( ḥayra ) relates to the entropic brain hypothesis, which has been proposed by Robin Carhart-Harris in the fields of human neuroscience and psychopharmacology. Studies have demonstrated a correlation between the ego and the default mode network ( DMN ). The ego relates to the I-ness ( anāniyya ) of a person according to Ibn ‘Arabī. As this article demonstrates, in the secondary state of self-organized criticality ( SOC ), where there is a propensity to make sense of and organize the world around us, emphasis on the I-ness and a self-imposed reality-filter creates a metaphysical veil ( ḥijāb ) that prevents perception of the divine reality that permeates all existence. This veil is only removed in the primary state of criticality where spiritual unveiling ( kashf ) reveals the divine reality of all things.