Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 PhD student in Persian language and literature, Department of Persian literature, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
2 Department of Persian Language and Literature, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
3 Department of Theology, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
Abstract
Eckankar, as one of the popular American pseudo-spiritualities and eclectic, consumerist "mystical" movements, has gained traction in Western and even Islamic societies. Factors such as individualism, freedom from Sharia-based obligations, and responsiveness to "customized" spiritual needs have driven the appeal of such movements, necessitating in-depth and meticulous investigations across various dimensions to address and counter their influence. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the concept of "Sugmad" in Eckankar and the concept of God in Islamic mysticism to elucidate the convergences and divergences between these two systems within the framework of mystical theology and comparative theology. Employing an analytical-descriptive methodology and documentary analysis of Eckankar’s foundational texts (e.g., works by its leaders) and key texts of Islamic mysticism, the core concepts of both traditions are examined through the lens of comparative theology.
The findings reveal that in Eckankar, Sugmad is defined as a flow of energy and an "impersonal ultimate truth," accessible through subjective experiences (e.g., Soul Travel) and guidance from "Living Masters." Superficial similarities between the two systems include an emphasis on the unity of truth and mystical empiricism. However, fundamental differences in ontological foundations (personal/impersonal), anthropological frameworks (submission/spiritual autonomy), and epistemological bases (revelation-centric/human-centric) position them in profound opposition. Despite Eckankar’s use of terminology reminiscent of Islamic mysticism, the impersonal nature of Sugmad, the absence of adherence to Sharia, and an instrumentalist interpretation of spirituality establish a radical distinction from Islamic theology and mysticism.
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