K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎)

K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎)

Definition

K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎) refers to the mind or conscience. In Islamic mysticism, particularly in Sufi traditions, this term is used by mystic teachers to denote internal thoughts and inclinations. K͟hāt̤ir can be classified into four distinct types based on their origin and influence:

1. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾr-Rabbānī (الخاطر الرباني) - Conscience inspired by God.
2. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾl-Malakī (الخاطر الملَكي) - Conscience inspired by angels.
3. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾn-Nafsānī (الخاطر النفسانى) - Conscience inspired by the flesh.
4. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾsh-Shait̤ānī (الخاطر الشيطانى) - Conscience inspired by the devil.

These delineations are concisely outlined in classical works such as Kitābu ʾt-Taʿrīfāt (كتاب التعريفات).

Etymology

The term K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎) is derived from the root خ ط ر (khaṭara), which carries meanings related to thoughts, consciousness, and deliberation. In classical Arabic, this root word also conveys notions of danger and risk, likely alluding to the potential moral and spiritual consequences of one’s inner thoughts.

Turkish Translation

In Turkish, the term K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎) could be translated as “vicdan” or “zihin”, which means conscience or mind, respectively.

Different Kinds of K͟hāt̤ir

1. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾr-Rabbānī (الخاطر الرباني)
   This type of K͟hāt̤ir suggests divine inspiration and is considered the most positive and spiritually uplifting form. It aligns with the divine will and leads the individual towards righteous actions.

2. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾl-Malakī (الخاطر الملَكي)
   This denotes the influence of angels, guiding individuals towards good deeds and moral rectitude. It is also seen as a beneficial type of conscience.

3. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾn-Nafsānī (الخاطر النفسانى)
   This kind refers to the inclinations of the flesh—desires and instincts that are natural to human beings but can lead one away from spiritual goals if not controlled.

4. Al-K͟hāt̤iru ʾsh-Shait̤ānī (الخاطر الشيطانى)
   This type is inspired by the devil, aiming to divert individuals from the path of righteousness and leading them towards sinful behaviors.

Recommended Readings for Further Studies

1. “Kitābu ʾt-Taʿrīfāt” by Al-Jurjani
2. “The Sufi Path of Knowledge” by William C. Chittick
3. “The Principles of Sufism” by Al-Qushayri
4. “The Mystics of Islam” by Reynold A. Nicholson

Key Takeaways

• K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎) is crucial for understanding internal spiritual and moral states in Islamic mysticism.
• Recognizing the four types of K͟hāt̤ir can aid in spiritual self-awareness and moral guidance.
• Mystical teachers emphasize the capability to distinguish between these influences for a righteous life.

Conclusion

Understanding K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎) is essential in the study of Islamic mysticism, offering profound insights into the varieties of conscience and their spiritual origins. By recognizing and interpreting these internal influences, believers can better navigate their spiritual journeys and align their lives with divine guidance.