Analysis of the Concept of "Truthfulness" (Sidq) in Kashani’s Misbah al-Hidaya

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Yazd University

2 Persian Language and Literature, Faculty of Literature and Languages, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran

10.22077/jcrl.2025.9472.1213

Abstract

This article examines the concept of ṣedq (truthfulness) from the perspective of ʿIzz al-Dīn Maḥmūd Kāshānī, a prominent mystic of the 7th and 8th centuries AH. In the eighth chapter of his work Meṣbāḥ al-Hedāyah va Meftāḥ al-Kefāyah, Kāshānī analyzes ṣedq as an ethical-mystical axis, drawing on prophetic traditions (aḥādīth) and the views of earlier thinkers to elucidate its profound impact on spiritual wayfaring. Employing a descriptive-analytical method and relying on library research, this study first revisits the concept of ṣedq within the frameworks of the Qurʾān and Nahj al-Balāghah, then references mystical sources to meticulously explore Kāshānī’s multifaceted perspectives on ṣedq. The research methodology is grounded in qualitative content analysis, wherein statements related to ṣedq in Meṣbāḥ al-Hedāyah are extracted, categorized, and examined through three focal axes: "intention" (niyyah), "speech" (qawl), and "action" (ʿamal). Additionally, given the generalized and scattered nature of discussions in classical texts, efforts are made to analyze the theoretical coherence of Kāshānī’s views by referencing Qurʾānic and narrational evidence. Findings reveal that Kāshānī regards ṣidq not merely as an ethical virtue but as an existential truth (ḥaqīqah wujūdiyyah) that, on individual and societal levels, facilitates proximity to God and the realization of justice. A comparative analysis of Kāshānī’s views with sources such as the Qurʾān and Nahj al-Balāghah indicates both alignment with and divergence from Shiʿi religious foundations in defining ṣedq. Ultimately, this study clarifies the position of the truthful human being (insān ṣādiq) from Kāshānī’s perspective within the evolution of mystical discourse.

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History

  • Receive Date: 25 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 29 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 10 October 2025
  • Publish Date: 21 March 2026

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