Ḥiss (حسّ)
Definition and Significance
Ḥiss (حسّ) is an Arabic term encompassing the concepts of “understanding” and “sense.” Within Islamic philosophy and thought, Ḥiss is crucial in discussing the types of perception and cognition, both internal and external.
Etymology
The term “Ḥiss” originates from the Arabic root word حس ح س (ḥ-s-s), which generally refers to feeling, sensation, or perception. It suggests a nuanced understanding of various forms of sensory and intellectual reception.
Types of Ḥiss
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Ḥiss Bātin (حسّ باطن): Refers to the internal sense, which can be understood as an inner intuitive or spiritual perception. It relates to concepts of inner awareness or insight, often emphasized in Sufi spiritual practices.
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Ḥiss Z̤āhir (حسّ ظاهر): Refers to the external sense, which relates to physical sensory perceptions like sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.
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Ḥiss Mushtarik (حسّ مشترک): Translates to common sense, though in classical Islamic thought, it shares a broader meaning, referring to the collective sensory input synthesized by the mind to generate an understanding of the external world.
Translations
- Arabic: حسّ (Ḥiss)
- Turkish: His
Further Study
For a deeper understanding of the concept of Ḥiss in Islamic thought and its implications in intellectual and spiritual discussions, the following books are recommended:
- “The Book of Knowledge” (Kitab al-Ilm) by Al-Ghazali - Exploring the boundaries and types of knowledge, including sensory and spiritual comprehension.
- Aristotle’s “De Anima (On the Soul)” - While not Islamic per se, its influence on Islamic scholars like Ibn Sina (Avicenna) is crucial in understanding sensory and intellectual faculties.
- “The Niche of Lights” (Mishkat al-Anwar) by Al-Ghazali - Delving into deeper metaphysical and spiritual insights related to internal sense.
Key Takeaways
- Ḥiss in Islamically philosophical terms goes beyond mere sensory perception and includes understanding of spiritual and intellectual faculties.
- The distinction between Ḥiss Bātin and Ḥiss Z̤āhir reflects the dual nature of human perception—both internal (spiritual) and external (physical).
- Ḥiss Mushtarik is foundational in synthesizing multiple sensory inputs to form coherent understanding.
Conclusion
The concept of Ḥiss is integral to Islamic intellectual tradition, providing insight into the complex nature of human perception and understanding. By studying the different types of Ḥiss, one can appreciate the depth of Islamic thought in bridging the physical and spiritual realms of human cognition.
For holistic insight into these concepts, refer to the aforementioned texts and consider the integration of sensory and intellectual faculties as articulated by classical Islamic scholars.
