NĀSŪT (ناسوت)
Definition and Significance
NĀSŪT (ناسوت), often translated as “human nature,” is a term in Sufism that denotes the natural state of every human being before embarking on the mystical journey towards spiritual enlightenment. In the context of Islamic mysticism, it refers to the material and earthly condition of humans, which includes their physical body and worldly concerns.
Etymology
The term NĀSŪT is derived from the Arabic root “ن-س-و” (n-s-w), which relates to human beings and their attributes. The Persian and Turkish renditions of the term maintain this essence, adhering closely to its Arabic origin.
- Arabic: ناسوت
- Turkish: Nasûtiyet (though the exact term usage is less common in Turkish)
Context in Sufism
In Sufism, the journey of spiritual evolution involves transcending from the human nature (Nāsūt) to higher spiritual states. The Sufis believe that the Shariah (Islamic law) primarily addresses people in their Nāsūt stage, providing the necessary framework for ethical and moral guidance.
Nāsūt is contrasted with other mystical states or realms such as Lāhūt (Divine nature) and Jabarūt (power or majesty). The journey involves moving beyond Nāsūt to attain a more profound connection with the divine reality.
Role in Sufi Practice
According to Sufi teachings, understanding and overcoming Nāsūt involves personal development, self-purification, and adherence to spiritual practices (e.g., Dhikr, meditation, and asceticism). The nature of this journey signifies an internal struggle to transcend ego and worldly attachments.
Relation to Islamic Law
While Nāsūt represents the state of human beings engrossed in worldly life, Sufis regard Shariah as essential in this condition. However, as one progresses into higher mystical states, the outward law (Shariah) is realized inwardly (Haqiqah) leading to a deeper spiritual understanding transcendence.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Stations of the Sufi Path” (Maqāmāt al-Sūfiyya) by Abdullah Ansari
- “Al-Hujwiri’s Kashf al-Mahjub” (The Revelation of the Veiled) translated by Reynolds A. Nicholson
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn al-‘Arabi’s Metaphysics of Imagination” by William C. Chittick
- “Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam” by Carl W. Ernst
Takeaways and Conclusion
- NĀSŪT (ناسوت) represents human nature and the starting point for the Sufi mystical journey.
- The concept underscores the Sufi perspective on human life and the necessity of spiritual ascent.
- Understanding Nāsūt helps in appreciating the dynamic balance between Shariah (law) and Haqiqah (truth) in Sufi practice.
In essence, the study of Nāsūt provides insight into the comprehensive nature of human existence from a Sufi viewpoint and the transformative journey towards spiritual realization.
