Divine Love in Islamic Thought (Ibn Sina as a Case Study)

Abstract

This study explores the concept of divine love in Islamic thought, focusing on Avicenna (Ibn Sina) as a prominent figure in the Islamic philosophical tradition. Divine love represents the bond between humans and their Creator, guiding spiritual and ethical behavior, and reflecting the relationship between the servant and the Divine. The concept evolved with the expansion of the Islamic state and interaction with diverse cultures, while Sufi thinkers emphasized a mystical approach. For Ibn Sina, God is the ultimate Beloved of human souls, characterized by perfection and transcendence beyond comparison. The study aims to clarify the notion of divine love and its impact on the life of the community, examining the views of key Muslim philosophers, particularly Ibn Sina, and comparing them with Ibn Rushd. It investigates the originality of this concept in Islam, its connection to Islamic heritage, and contrasts it with Western philosophical perspectives. Methodologically, the research employs a descriptive-analytical approach to examine philosophical views, a comparative approach to analyze Ibn Sina’s and Ibn Rushd’s positions, and a critical approach to discuss the perspectives of Plato and Aristotle, highlighting differences between Islamic and Greek philosophical contexts. The study relies on primary sources and classical texts to ensure accurate documentation and scholarly analysis.