International Academic Course on Islamic Mysticism (I'rfan)
Intensive Online Summer School
Discover the rich tradition of Islamic Mysticism in this 16-session intensive course. This course offers an in-depth exploration of key concepts, influential figures, and the interplay between mysticism, philosophy, and theology. Join us to embark on a transformative journey into the heart of Islamic spirituality.
The course will be held live on Zoom.
Course Dates
August 4- August 23 , 2025
Registration Deadline
August 3, 2025
Scholarship
Partial scholarships available
About Course
Islamic Mysticism, often known as ‘Irfan or Sufism, has been a profound and transformative tradition within the Islamic intellectual and spiritual heritage. This 16-session intensive course marks the first foundational phase of a comprehensive exploration, with an advanced phase to follow.
In this foundational phase, designed for students, researchers, and enthusiasts of Islamic studies, participants will delve into the origins, history, philosophical foundations, and spiritual dimensions of Islamic Mysticism. This phase offers a structured and in-depth study of key mystical concepts, influential figures, and the interplay between mysticism, philosophy, and theology.
Participants will explore topics such as the Unity of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud), the spiritual journey (Suluk), divine love, and the role of mysticism in ethics, society, and even environmental perspectives. The course will also examine the contributions of great mystics such as Ibn Arabi and Mulla Sadra and discuss how Islamic Mysticism has evolved through different historical and intellectual contexts, including its relationship with Shi’ism.
This course is a rigorous academic program offering in-depth engagement with Islamic mystical traditions, presented by esteemed scholars from around the world.
Distinguished Scholars
About Islamic Mysticism
Islamic Mysticism, known as ʿIrfān, is a rich and deeply contemplative dimension of the Islamic tradition that integrates spiritual experience with philosophical and theological inquiry. Unlike general spirituality, ʿIrfān is a structured intellectual and spiritual path that seeks to uncover the inner meanings of divine revelation and the metaphysical realities of existence.
Emerging from the early centuries of Islam and flourishing through the works of major figures like al-Ghazālī, Ibn ʿArabī, and Mullā Ṣadrā, Islamic Mysticism developed into a sophisticated discipline, encompassing concepts such as the Unity of Being (Wahdat al-Wujūd), the spiritual journey (Sulūk), and divine love (maḥabba). It also profoundly influenced Islamic ethics, art and poetry.
In Shiʿi thought, ʿIrfān took unique forms, blending seamlessly with theology and philosophy, particularly in the later schools of thought in Iran. Today, Islamic Mysticism remains a vital field of inquiry for those seeking to understand the deeper layers of Islamic belief, practice, and worldview.
Target group
Professors, researchers and university students in the field of religious studies, Islamic studies, philosophy, history of philosophy, Islamic Philosophy, regional studies and anyone else who is interested in the topic with a good command of English!
General info
Subject: Islamic Studies, Islamic Mysticism
Language of instruction: English
Length: 3 weeks
Contact hours: 30
Certificate: Available
Platform: Live on Zoom
Session Timing
5:30 PM BST (London)
12:30 PM EDT (New York)
9:30 AM PDT (Los Angeles)
6:30 PM CEST (Germany)
8:00 PM IRDT (Tehran)
Titles, Lecturers and Dates
August 4
Understanding the role of Islamic Mysticism in contemporary life and its relevance in today’s world.
Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri
Spiritual Philosopher and Writer
August 5
Islamic Mysticism: Origin, Sources, Methodology, and Scales
Understanding the Foundations and Frameworks of Islamic Mysticism
University of Lethbridge (Theoretical & Practical Sufism)
August 6
The History of Islamic Mysticism
Tracing the Evolution of Mystical Thought and Practice in Islam
University of North Carolina (History of Sufism)
August 7
Branches of Islamic Mysticism: Theoretical, Practical
Exploring the Dual Dimensions of Islamic Mysticism
Associate Professor of Qur’anic Studies (The university of Chicago)
August 8
Irfān and Taṣawwuf
The Historical Background and Contemporary Understanding of Irfān and Taṣawwuf: Unity or Difference?
Associate Professor of Religion, Middlebury College
August 11
The Meaning of Life from a Mystical Perspective
Life’s Purpose Through the Lens of Islamic Spirituality
President of the International Institute for Islamic Studies
August 12
Ibn Arabi: The Mystical Visionary
Exploring the Mystical Universe of Ibn Arabi: Visionary Insights and Intellectual power
Independent Scholar
August 13
The Relationship Between Mysticism, Philosophy, and Theology
Bridging Intellectual and Spiritual Disciplines in Islamic Thought
University of Kentucky (Islamic philosophy & theology)
August 14
The Synthesis of Mysticism, Religion, and Reason in Mulla Sadra's Work
Harmonizing Spiritual Intuition, Religious Doctrine, and Philosophical Inquiry
H.I. Sayed Ali Musawi Jazayeri
Professor of Islamic philosophy and mysticism at the Islamic Seminary of Qom
August 15
The Individual Unity of Being: The Central Core of Islamic Mysticism
Wahdat al-Wujud and the Mystical Understanding of Existence
Professor of Islamic Studies, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
August 16
Mystical Concepts of the Ziyara of Arbaeen
“Special Arbaeen Lecture“
Islamic Scholar, Author and Lecturer
August 18
States and Stations of the Journey to Allah
The Spiritual Path: Ascending Through Maqamat and Ahwal
University Professor of Islamic Studies (and Sufism) at Saint Joseph University, Beirut
President of Adyan Foundation
August 19
The Perfection of Man and the Perfect Man
The Concept of Insan al-Kamil in Islamic Mysticism
Senior Research Associate, The Institute of Ismaili Studies
August 20
The Order of the Universe Based on the Names of Allah
Divine Names as the Blueprint of Creation and Mystical Reality
Professor of Islamic Studies, University of Exeter
August 21
Ethics and Mysticism
The Moral Foundations of the Mystical Path
Professor of Philosophy, Imam Khomeini Education and Research Institute
August 22
The Environment from the Perspective of Islamic Mysticism
Nature as a Reflection of Divine Reality
University Professor, George Washington University
August 23
The State of Islamic Mysticism in the Recent Century
Reflections on new developments, Challenges, Transformations, and Contemporary Relevance
Professor of Islamic Studies, University of Michigan
August 27
The Relationship Between Mysticism, Philosophy, and Theology
Bridging Intellectual and Spiritual Disciplines in Islamic Thought
University of Kentucky (Islamic philosophy & theology)
Make- up Session
Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from best scholars in the field.
Please note: All sessions will be recorded and made available exclusively to registered participants.
Costs
Course Fee:
700 Euros
Note: Many scholarships and discounts are available. To determine your eligibility, kindly fill out the registration form, and we will promptly provide you with details regarding potential discounts or scholarships.
Important Dates
Course Start: August 4, 2025
Course End: August 23, 2025
Registration Deadline: August 3, 2025
Availabilities
Scholarship available
Scholarships Available
A limited number of scholarships are available for our online course in Islamic Mysticism, featuring leading scholars from around the world. To apply, simply complete the registration form. Our team will review your application and get back to you shortly. Don’t miss this opportunity to join a vibrant community of learners—apply now!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the International Intensive Academic Course on Islamic Mysticism?
The course is a university-level program designed for students and academics interested in enhancing their understanding of Islamic Mysticism. It consists of 16 sessions covering various aspects of the subject.
Where does the course is held?
The course will be held live on Zoom, so anyone from around the world can attend.
Who is the target audience for this course?
The course is aimed at professors, researchers, university students in religious studies, Islamic studies, philosophy, and anyone with a strong interest in the topic who has a good command of English.
When does the course take place?
The course will run from August 4- August 23, 2025.
How long is each session?
Will the lectures be recorded and available for viewing after the live sessions?
What is the cost of the course?
The course fee is 700 Euro. However, you can take advantage of our scholarship opportunity.
Are there any scholarships available?
How can I contact you if I have further questions?
You can email us at info@hikmat-ins.com.
Certificate of Completion
Our students radiate joy, thriving in a positive and supportive learning environment where they not only acquire knowledge but also cultivate a genuine sense of joy and fulfillment in their educational journey
For any questions, email us at info@hikmat-ins.com