The Theory of Appearance (dzāhir) and Mystery (bātin) in Sufism and its Relation to the Phenomena of Concealment and Ambiguity

Study of Origin, Concepts, Causes and Results

Abstract

This study deals with the theory of the “dzāhir” appearance and “bāTin” in Sufism, which is considered one of the most significant and most dangerous theories on which Sufism ontological structure is based. We have found that the path that prepared for the emergence of this theory was the retreats they secluded themselves in, to stay away from the splendor and hustle of life. Later, internal and external factors contributed to the formulation of their ideas as a complete philosophical theory.

Their gratification in the heart precepts and their strong belief in them, made them lead ascetic life and abstain from Shari`a law. Fearing the denial of scholars of their beliefs and the hostility of common people, they resorted to several tactics  such as promoting the division of religion to “Shari`a” and “truth”, “dzāhir” and “bāTin”, and claimed that there is no contradiction between them at all, although reality is totally different.

The adoption of this theory led to two strange phenomena, concealment, and ambiguity. The sufis never cease recommending the concealment of their knowledge and revelations from those who do not belong to their group (way). If they need to speak, they stay away from lucidity and soften their words with ambiguities to the extent that coded language has become a feature of their writings. Their language verges on the mysterious to engulf their confessions.

Although they present a range of justifications in explaining these two phenomena, the real reason behind them lies in their awareness of the explicit clash of their beliefs with Islamic law (Shari’a), and their fear that they may face the shari’a strict sword, the same way Al- Hallaj did when he explicitly declared (pantheism).

 The researcher suggests that declaring "pantheism" is the greatest secret that sufis insist on not revealing. The paper shows evidence of the invalidity of this ominous theory, and concludes with mentioning the dire implications of adopting it.