A Contextual Critique on the Book The Alchemist Based on the Mystical Teachings of Sheikh Ala'odoleh Semnani

Hamzian, Azim; Raufi, Ghasem

doi:10.30465/crtls.2024.46484.2776

A Contextual Critique on the Book The Alchemist Based on the Mystical Teachings of Sheikh Ala'odoleh Semnani

Document Type : Promotional

Authors

Azim Hamzian ¹

Ghasem Raufi ²

¹ Assistant Professor, Department of Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Humanities, University of Semnan, Semnan, Iran

² PhD Student of Sufism and Islamic Mysticism, Faculty of Humanities, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran

https://doi.org/10.30465/crtls.2024.46484.2776

Abstract

The book "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is a symbolic story that presents mystical themes in the form of a journey. This article examines the common mystical concepts between "The Alchemist" and the mystical teachings of Sheikh Ala'odoleh Semnani, a prominent mystic of the 7th and 8th centuries AH. It begins by identifying common mystical concepts such as the unity of existence, journey, symbolism, treasure, etc., and then analyzes comparatively how these concepts are expressed and interpreted in both works. Finally, it compares, evaluates, and critiques the mystical aspects of "The Alchemist" in light of Semnani's mystical teachings. This content analysis was conducted using a descriptive-analytical method and a comparative approach based on library studies. Although the origin, style, method, purpose, and audience of this study differ, the findings suggest that Coelho shares verbal similarities with Sheikh Semnani's mystical teachings in the elements mentioned above. However, in terms of ultimate goal and purpose, they are completely contradictory and conflicting. By adopting mystical teachings and combining them with his ideas, Coelho seeks to promote a kind of modern or mixed spirituality to fill the voids of contemporary humanity. promote a kind of modern or blended spirituality to fill the voids of contemporary humanity, offering a new interpretation of life.

Keywords

Emerging Spiritualities

Islamic Mysticism

Symbolism

Journey

World Soul

Subjects

Theology and religions

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