A Comparative Analysis of the Number of Spiritual Stations and Waystations of Mystics from the Perspectives of Imam Khomeini and Qushayri

Abstract

This study aims to comparatively analyze the number, structure, and conceptual logic of mystical stations and waystations in the thought of Imam Khomeini and Qushayri. The central problem is that the difference between these two mystics in presenting spiritual stations is not merely numerical, but rooted in their epistemological, anthropological, spiritual, and teleological foundations. The research adopts a descriptive-analytical method based on a comparative reading of the major works of both thinkers. The findings indicate that Qushayri, within the framework of classical Sufism, explains stations mainly as a set of virtues, disciplines, and spiritual states, emphasizing repentance, scrupulousness, asceticism, patience, trust, satisfaction, love, knowledge, and sincere servitude. By contrast, Imam Khomeini interprets stations and waystations within the horizon of Shi‘i mysticism, guardianship, monotheism, the removal of dark and luminous veils, presence of heart, the inner meaning of worship, and ascent through the divine names. Thus, in Qushayri’s view, the plurality of stations primarily has an ethical and pedagogical function, whereas in Imam Khomeini’s thought, the waystations of the path acquire meaning in relation to the degrees of monotheism and the realization of servitude. The study concludes that Qushayri is closer to a detailed enumeration of stations and the formation of a pedagogical map for the seeker, while Imam Khomeini gives greater attention to the ontological and monotheistic depth of the waystations. Accordingly, the number of stations in Islamic mysticism is not fixed or merely numerical, but reflects each mystic’s understanding of the human being, religious law, spiritual path, guardianship, and the final goal of mystical journeying.