Persian Literature

The Role of Simile and Allegory in Explaining the Concept of Wahdat al-Wujud in Attar's Mantiq al-Tayr

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Ali Karimi 1
AliMohammad Moazzeni 2
Alireza Hajian Nejad 2
Rouhollah Hadi 2

1 -

2 University of Tehran

https://doi.org/10.22059/jpl.2025.396103.2312
Abstract
This study explores the crucial role of simile and allegory in explaining the complex concept of wahdat al-wujud (the Unity of Being) in Attar's mystical masterpiece The Conference of the Birds. Given the profoundly abstract nature of mystical concepts in Islamic philosophy, Attar skillfully and systematically employs these rhetorical devices—particularly simile and allegory—to present these transcendental ideas in a more tangible, relatable, and impactful manner for his readers. The primary aim of this research is to carefully analyze how these sophisticated literary strategies function in effectively conveying the subtle notion of wahdat al-wujud, while also critically examining their unique strengths and inherent limitations as tools of mystical expression. The methodology adopted is fundamentally descriptive-analytical, deeply grounded in both classical Islamic mysticism and traditional rhetorical theory. Findings clearly indicate that Attar creatively utilizes various profound allegories such as "the Simurgh and its shadow," "wax and its multiple forms," and "the astrologer's divination board" to vividly illustrate different philosophical aspects of wahdat al-wujud. These carefully constructed figures serve the dual purpose of both clarifying the mystical concepts (through approximation) while simultaneously, due to the inevitable limitations of all figurative language, potentially leading to certain misinterpretations (through distancing). The research ultimately concludes that Attar, through his remarkable artistic synthesis of poetic simile and solid mystical foundations, has successfully created an exceptionally effective mechanism for conveying abstract spiritual ideas. Nonetheless, for a more comprehensive understanding of wahdat al-wujud, further comparative analysis of these allegories with other important mystical texts and deeper exploration of their philosophical implications are strongly recommended.

Keywords

Attar
The Conference of the Birds
simile
allegory
Unity of Being
Islamic mysticism
Subjects
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