What Is the Connection Between the Divine Names and Metaphysics?

Question

Hello, I hope you’re well. For several years, I had been seeking truths about the special connection between the divine names and metaphysics: the relationship between the outer and inner worlds, between sleep and wakefulness, and between the sun and certain metaphysical matters. I was also wondering whether the unseen and the witnessed realm, when experienced in wakefulness, is controlled from outside or from within the human kingdom. And what of the opening of different dimensions for a person, whether spiritual or physical? What you have shared in the Meshkat-e Noor sessions answered many of my questions—so to speak, it unlocked them—and opened many doors for me. May God preserve you, God willing.

Please explain these passages and elaborate on the idea that the outer world reflects a person’s inner world, and that inner locks are opened with outer keys.

Accepted Answer

In light of Imam Sajjad’s supplication in al-Ṣaḥīfa al-Sajjādiyya, « و متعنی بهدى صالح لا أستبدل به، و طریقه حق لا أزیغ عنها، و نیه رشد لا أشک فیها،», we concluded that three great systems—sound guidance, the path of truth, and right intention—play a special and fundamental role in the human journey of spiritual wayfaring. They are like keys that unlock three treasuries within the heart, opening three gates of human nature.

In fact, external systems are poles of the inner systems: when brought into proximity with them, they activate and set them in motion.

All the prophets, in all their attributes and particulars, together with all the heavenly books—and, beyond these, all the sciences, invocations, and divine names—are inscribed within the human heart, like a living, dynamic book. In those who are worthy, this book has been fully activated and brought into practice. This is what faith and certitude mean. In most people, however, the book remains sealed, closed and dormant; it is awakened through the Messenger, the spiritual guide, and the revealed heavenly books!

The outer world is, in a sense, a reflection of our inner world. Put another way, it is a translation of our inner system: the more fully and effectively that system is brought to life, the more wonders the outer world will reflect.

هو الجمیل

The prophets are gathered at the exalted Throne,  
that they may become mirrors reflecting the radiance of His beauty.

May the sweetness of the honey of His beauty be yours forever, filling your heart with its savour.

What Is the Connection Between the Divine Names and Metaphysics?

The essence and first answer at a glance (60-word summary)

Answer by Master Ali Saei (Abdullah Meshkat)

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