Abstract

Abu Ali Daqaq (405 A.H.), known as “Master”, “Imam of Art”, and “Orator of Time”, was one of the most famous sufis in Nyshabour in the fourth century A.H. These epithets showed his gifts and skills in the mystical majales. According to the historical evidence and intellectual heritage, he held the most fervent meetings in Nyshabour, Marv, and cities around. With his “explicit explication” and “eloquent speech”, he spoke about the most significant mystical themes such as “delicate” mode of affection that human heart is its source and treasure; courtesy in obedience and this leads human beings close to God; verity and good deeds in that human must show himself as he is; the importance of wanting and its superiority over gain and join; chivalry, magnanimity, and no hostility and enmity to others. Daqaq was an ascetic mystic who avoided popularity, and it seems his association with “grief, sorrow, and gloom” was not unrelated with his seclusion. However, he was a disciple of Abolqāsem Nasr‛abadi, and great men like Abolghāsem Ghoshayri and Abu Said Abu al-khayr were among his celebrated students. In this article, after reviewing Daqaq’s life, masters, works and thoughts, we tried to refer to his major intellectual and mystical heritage for the first time using the invaluable manuscript al-Shavahed wa al-Amthāl, which includes his speeches and meetings. In spite of its great importance in the tradition of oratory and historical study of mysticism, Daqaq’s legacy had been neglected. 
 

Keywords

• Abu Ali Daqaq
• Al-Shavahed wa Alamthal
• Rhetoric
• Mystical thoughts