Prof. Sudesh Kumar | President, The Centenary Lodge, Theosophical Society.
The holy month of Ramadan holds significant importance in Islamic tradition, marking a time of spiritual reflection, and community engagement.
Significance of Ramadan -
- Fasting:
Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting from dawn until sunset, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. This practice is intended to foster self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and a closer connection to God.
- Zakat & Iftar:
Ramadan emphasizes Charity (Zakat) and community bonding through Shared Meals (Iftar) after fasting each day. It serves as a reminder of social responsibility and compassion towards those in need.
Theosophical Perspective -
From a Theosophical viewpoint, Ramadan can be considered an opportunity for spiritual growth and self-reflection. The principles of fasting and charity resonate with Theosophical teachings on compassion and unity among all beings. The fasting period not only promotes physical self-control but also encourages a more in-depth understanding of spiritual truths and the interconnectedness of humanity.
Theosophy, a spiritual philosophy that emphasizes the exploration of deeper truths, has found resonance within the Muslim world through following interpretations and practices.
1) Universal Brotherhood:
A fundamental principle of Theosophy is universal brotherhood, which aligns with Islamic teachings that promote equality among all Muslims (Al-Hujurat, 49:10). The principle of Universal Brotherhood serves as a meeting point between Islam and Theosophy. Theosophy embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds and promotes a syncretic approach to spirituality. Going further, it does not seek to remove people from their faith or religion gained by birth, but rather to enrich and revitalize them.
2) Transmission of Knowledge:
Theosophy posits an uninterrupted record of knowledge passed down through generations of seers, reflecting experiences that validate traditions shared orally. This aligns with Islamic teachings where prophets are seen as transmitters of divine knowledge, as indicated in the Quran (Al-Maida 5:67) and (Al-Baqra 2:151).
3) Islamic Theosophy:
Developed by Persian philosopher Mulla Sadra (1572-1640), transcendent theosophy (al-hikmat al-muta’āliyah) integrates Islamic philosophy with metaphysical insights. The expression al-hikmat al-muta’āliyah comprises two terms: al-hikmat (meaning literally, wisdom; and technically, philosophy, and by contextual extension theosophy) and muta’āliyah (meaning exalted or transcendent). So, the doctrines of Mulla Sadra are both hikmah or theosophy in its original sense and an intellectual vision of the transcendent. His work is pivotal in bridging traditional Islamic thought with philosophical inquiry.
4) Sufism:
Sufism is a form of an Islamic mysticism, is a spiritual dimension of Islam that emphasizes inner purification, divine love. It seeks closeness to Allah through meditation, prayer, chanting (Dhikr), and asceticism. Sufism has evolved into a theosophical system, incorporating elements from Neoplatonism and other philosophical traditions. Key figures like Ibn Arabi (1165–1240) have contributed to this synthesis, emphasizing unity with the divine and the journey of the soul.
Concluding Views -
Due to media buzz like Islamophobia, many people prefer to keep distance from Islamic adherence by Muslims, especially in non-Muslim countries. Although, I as a Theosophist, do not oppose Islamic practices except cruel ones, but rather seek to reinterpret them in a broader spiritual context. Ramadan serves as a pivotal time for Muslims to engage in spiritual practices that align with both their faith and broader ethical principles recognized in Theosophy. This approach allows for a more inclusive understanding of spirituality that resonates with diverse religious backgrounds.
- Published in April 2025 - print edition
1) News Paper - Bandra Times (Mumbai)
2) Magazine - Bombay Theosophical Federation (BTF) Bulletin
3) Few others.
