Spiritual Insight and the Interplay of Thought and Intuition in Allama Iqbal’s Philosophy

Abstract

This article explores Allama Iqbal’s profound reflections on the relationship between human thought, religious experience , and the foundations of faith-based life. Iqbal challenges the clear distinctions often made between thought and intuition, arguing that both stem from a common origin and are interlinked in their pursuit of understanding reality. He emphasizes that human thought, while bound by temporal limitations, is inherently dynamic and capable of transcending its perceived finitude to grasp infinite truths. Drawing on concepts such as "Unity of Being" from Sufi philosophy, Iqbal illustrates how thought can evolve beyond logic and merge with spiritual insight. He critiques the limitations imposed by philosophers like Kant and Ghazali, asserting that thought’s essence is infinite and must be understood as such to pursue higher knowledge. Iqbal also elaborates on the heart as a means of acquiring divine knowledge, following Ghazali’s ideas but with a deeper emphasis on spiritual experience validated through rational and result-based criteria. The heart’s illumination, as described by Iqbal, provides access to truths beyond sensory perception and serves as a reliable source of spiritual knowledge. Furthermore, Iqbal discusses the role of faith as a stabilizing force in a challenging world, highlighting how spiritual conviction empowers human beings to overcome obstacles and fulfill their divine purpose. The article delves into Iqbal’s assertion that religious experience  should be comprehensible and subject to scrutiny, ensuring that religious experience does not become monopolized by a select few. He integrates modern psychological insights, particularly from William James, to describe the characteristics of spiritual experience and its validation. By intertwining intellectual and practical dimensions of faith, Iqbal presents a holistic vision where spiritual experiences shape both individual and collective life, manifesting divine attributes and fostering societal transformation.