Analysis of the meaning of life from Mulla Sadra's point of view and its connection with salvation

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Islamic Studies, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 Department of Education, Faculty of Theology, Ferdowsi University

Abstract

The understanding of the truth behind life's meaning and the pursuit of salvation have long been central concerns for humanity. An exploration of the two key concepts of "meaning of life" and "salvation" in light of creation and the elevated status of humans, from Mulla Sadra's perspective, emphasizes the theory of the manifestation of the Divine in the world and analyzes the relationship between these concepts. It reveals that salvation, regarded as the ultimate goal for humans, constitutes the foundation for life's meaning, and inquiries into the nature of life's meaning are only resolved through the attainment of salvation and the enjoyment of an afterlife.

This fundamental study employs a library research method with a descriptive-analytical approach to elucidate the concept of "life" as a network of various elements and "salvation" as the ultimate perfection of humanity. The paper also examines the challenges of understanding life’s meaning in the modern era, such as weakened material motivations and the decline of religion. Results indicate that without salvation, the true meaning of life cannot be realized. In essence, salvation is pivotal, and the establishment of meaning in human life is contingent upon both worldly and otherworldly salvation. Furthermore, salvation is a tangible truth that individuals can experience, and at any stage of their perfection, individuals possess the potential to attain it. This research aims to provide a comprehensive response to philosophical concerns regarding life's meaning and salvation through precise analysis of these concepts and their interrelations.

Keywords

Main Subjects