The Hermetic Wisdom of Quran — Part 4 (The Communion)

Introduction

This article continues the series of “The Hermetic Wisdom of Quran”, and here it deals exclusively with the mystery of “The Communion”. There are many sections in Quran that refer to the mystery of Communion directly as well as implicitly in their teachings, and require thorough investigations through the lens of hermetic wisdom. The most prominent chapter in Quran regarding this mystery is the chapter 41, called the “Fussilat (Detailed Explanations)”. Therefore, we shall examine the features associated with the mystery of Communion and some of its esoteric aspects as described in the chapter.

The Communion essentially represents the great works performed by a person for the spiritual growth of his body and mind in the path of the Lord. The celebration of Communion rites in Christianity for instance, involves partaking of bread and wine that metaphorically refers to the body and blood of Christ, demonstrating the same mystery. The mystery of bread being the solid food causing the spiritual growth of the body, and the wine being more subtle fluid causing the spiritual growth of the mind. It implies that such growth is the ultimate purpose of life, achievable through devotion to the divine. Though the occasion of Eucharist is mentioned in the chapter 5 (The Table Spread); however, it is in Chapter 41 where the metaphysical essence of Communion is most deeply articulated; and therefore, through a contemplative study of this chapter we shall attempt to uncover the profound depths of the mystery of Communion in the Quran.

The law of Symmetry and Proportion

According to hermetic wisdom, maintaining symmetry and proportion is crucial for a graceful and authentic human growth. Just as in the physical process of crystallization, any process of development must adhere to these principles to avoid deformation. Therefore, in order for the body and mind of a person to spiritually grow, he must follow the path of receiving the divine grace through Communion. This path from the standpoint of hermetic wisdom represents the path of the Luminaries, the Sun and the Moon, representing the body and the mind respectively. The Sun being always visibly prominent; symbolizes the body; whilst the Moon with its varying visibility ranging from being definitely obvious to completely veiled, represents the mind. However, the actual orbits of the Luminaries (Sun and Moon) always remain constant in their parameters, indicating that they cannot continuously extend or stretch to grow in their orbital paths in a symmetrical fashion. Thus, recognizing and adhering to a pattern of extending the orbits of the Luminaries in accordance with the principles of symmetry and proportion is necessary to achieve symmetrical growth.

Achieving this objective involves aligning with the orbital patterns of Jupiter and Saturn, which offer insights into proportional symmetry. The orbit of Jupiter takes 12 years to complete its cycle around the ecliptic, paralleling the 12-month orbit of the Sun. Similarly, Saturn's orbit takes 29.5 years, mirroring the 29.5-day orbit of the Moon. This correlation suggests that Jupiter embodies a higher symmetrical proportion of the Sun, while Saturn represents a higher symmetrical proportion of the Moon.

Comparing these proportions reveals an interesting dynamic between the two orbital patterns. The ratio between the Sun's orbit and Jupiter's orbit (1 year to 12 years) is smaller than the ratio between the Moon's orbit and Saturn's orbit (29.5 days to 29.5 years). This distinction reflects the inherent nature of the Sun and Jupiter relationship as representing the body, since the physical growth of a human body is limited by various constraints, resulting in a slower pace of development. Conversely, the relative association of Moon with Saturn suggests a significantly more profound growth in mental faculties of a person with comparatively much lesser efforts than the body.

The principle of symmetry and proportion also finds resonance in the Sacrament of the Eucharist or the Holy Communion in Christianity, where consuming the body and blood of Christ symbolizes an extension of Christ's body and mind within oneself. This act aligns with the idea of achieving a harmonious balance and proportionality in the spiritual growth of a person. Furthermore, a symbolic equivalence can also be drawn between the human body and the earth, and the human mind and the heavens, suggesting a profound connection between the physical and the divine realms for the spiritual evolution of humanity.

The Mystery of Communion in Quran

Next, we shall examine Chapter 41 called Fussilat (Detailed Explanations) within the context of Communion and the principles of symmetry and proportion.

1. Ha. Mim.

2. A revelation from the Beneficent, the Merciful,

3. A Scripture whereof the verses are expounded, a Lecture in Arabic for people who have knowledge,

4. Good tidings and a warning. But most of them turn away so that they hear not.

5. And they say: Our hearts are protected from that unto which thou (O Muhammad) callest us, and in our ears there is a deafness, and between us and thee there is a veil. Act, then. Lo! we also shall be acting.

6. Say (unto them O Muhammad): I am only a mortal like you. It is inspired in me that your Allah is One Allah, therefor take the straight path unto Him and seek forgiveness of Him. And woe unto the idolaters,

7. Who give not the poor-due, and who are disbelievers in the Hereafter.

8. Lo! as for those who believe and do good works, for them is a reward enduring.

The chapter commences with the mystery letters 'Ha. Mim.', which are commonly interpreted to signify "The Speech for Justice". The initial verses indicate that this chapter provides detailed elucidations for those who would possess knowledge, while the ignorant tend to turn away from it as they seek to avoid the mystical approach towards the divine Communion. Their hearts are shielded, their ears deafened, and their eyes blinded, all as a means to deter them from embracing the divine grace. The verse 7 suggests that the charitable attitude of a person is an important constituent for facilitating their connection with the divine, and thereby fully experiencing the sacred state of Communion; a theme that will be further elaborated upon later in the chapter. The next few verses are very significant from a symbolic standpoint.

9. Say (O Muhammad, unto the idolaters): Disbelieve ye verily in Him Who created the earth in two Days, and ascribe ye unto Him rivals? He (and none else) is the Lord of the Worlds.

10. He placed therein firm hills rising above it, and blessed it and measured therein its sustenance in four Days, alike for (all) who ask;

11. Then turned He to the heaven when it was smoke, and said unto it and unto the earth: Come both of you, willingly or loth. They said: We come, obedient.

12. Then He ordained them seven heavens in two Days and inspired in each heaven its mandate; and We decked the nether heaven with lamps, and rendered it inviolable. That is the measuring of the Mighty, the Knower.

In verse 9, the reference to the "two days" of divine creation of the earth carries a symbolic resonance with the Sun/Jupiter proportion, representing the body aspect of the Communion. This implies a connection to the physical realm and the material manifestation of existence. Similarly, the mention in verse 12 of the "two days" allotted for the creation of the seven heavens symbolically corresponds to the Moon/Saturn proportion, representing the mind aspect of the Communion. This connection suggests a focus on the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of existence.

However, in verse 10, where "four days" are mentioned, there's a convergence of both the Sun/Jupiter and Moon/Saturn proportions. This is because the "firm hills" mentioned in the verse serve as a unifying element connecting both the earthly and celestial realms, bridging the gap between the body and the mind. This represents the holistic Communion of both physical and spiritual aspects of human existence.

Moreover, the symbolism in verse 12 of decking the nether heaven with lamps, such as the Sun and the Moon, suggests the establishment of a foundational framework for conscious life on earth. These celestial bodies serve as guiding lights, forming an inviolable baseline from which individuals can embark on their journey towards higher levels of spiritual attainment represented by Jupiter and Saturn. This symbolism implies that the entire process of conscious life on earth is orchestrated by God with the ultimate purpose of achieving Communion between heavens and earth. These verses illustrate the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realms and the inherent significance of achieving harmony and balance between the body and the mind in the pursuit of divine Communion. The chapter further reads,

13. But if they turn away, then say: I warn you of a thunderbolt like the thunderbolt (which fell of old upon the tribes) of A’ad and Thamud;

14. When their messengers came unto them from before them and behind them, saying: Worship none but Allah! they said: If our Lord had willed, He surely would have sent down angels (unto us), so lo! we are disbelievers in that wherewith ye have been sent.

15. As for A’ad, they were arrogant in the land without right, and they said: Who is mightier than us in power? Could they not see that Allah Who created them, He was mightier than them in power? And they denied Our revelations.

16. Therefor We let loose on them a raging wind in evil days, that We might make them taste the torment of disgrace in the life of the world. And verily the doom of the Hereafter will be more shameful, and they will not be helped.

17. And as for Thamud, We gave them guidance, but they preferred blindness to the guidance, so the bolt of the doom of humiliation overtook them because of what they used to earn.

18. And We delivered those who believed and used to keep their duty to Allah.

In this chapter, the narratives of the people of A'ad and Thamud serve as profound allegories, shedding light on the consequences of their defiance and arrogance. Both groups were renowned for their physical strength and prowess, as evidenced by their ability to carve magnificent dwellings in the hills. However, their downfall stemmed from their pride that ultimately led to their destruction.

The symbolism associated with the people of A'ad suggests that they defied the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of the Communion, represented by the Moon/Saturn proportion. Their rejection of higher wisdom and spiritual insight led to their demise, as they were unable to transcend their materialistic pursuits and egotistical tendencies. The destruction wrought upon them by the "raging wind" symbolizes the subtle yet potent force of the inner turmoil and chaos that ensue when individuals stray from the path of righteousness and succumb to the destructive forces of their own minds. Just as a powerful wind can uproot trees and cause devastation, unchecked mental turbulence can wreak havoc on the mental landscape leading to confusion, despair, and ultimately self-destruction. This symbolism underscores the importance of cultivating inner peace and harmony through practices such as mindfulness, self-reflection, and emotional regulation. By learning to focus and calm the storms within our own minds, we can overcome the challenges of life with greater clarity, resilience, and grace.

Conversely, the people of Thamud are depicted as rejecting the physical aspect of the Communion, embodied by the Sun/Jupiter proportion. They diregarded the inherent purpose of physical strength to protect and serve the vulnerable in nature, both humans and animals; but instead they chose to exploit them for their own selfish desires and pleasures, thus severing their connection to the divine and their fellow beings. Therefore, the earthquake destroyed them as a symbolic token representing the upheaval that arise when individuals deviate from the path of righteousness and disregard their obligations to the earth and its inhabitants; thereby reminding us that true strength lies not in domination and exploitation, but in compassion, stewardship, and service to others.

The betrayal of Thanmud is also illustrated beautifully in chapter 91 of the Quran called “Ash-Shams (The Sun)”. It is relatively a brief chapter but replete with exquisite symbolism for particularly describing the earth/body aspect of the Communion. Hence, I shall reference the chapter 91 (The Sun) in the following.

1. By the sun and his brightness,

2. And the moon when she followeth him,

3. And the day when it revealeth him,

4. And the night when it enshroudeth him,

5. And the heaven and Him Who built it,

6. And the earth and Him Who spread it,

7. And a soul and Him Who perfected it,

8. And inspired it (with conscience of) what is wrong for it and (what is) right for it.

9. He is indeed successful who causeth it to grow,

10. And he is indeed a failure who stunteth it.

11. (The tribe of) Thamud denied (the truth) in their rebellious pride,

12. When the basest of them broke forth,

13. And the messenger of Allah said: It is the she-camel of Allah, so let her drink!

14. But they denied him, and they hamstrung her, so Allah doomed them for their sin and razed (their dwellings).

15. He dreadeth not the sequel (of events).

The mention of the "she-camel of Allah" in verse 13 holds profound symbolic significance, metaphorically representing the Sun. In many spiritual traditions, the Sun symbolizes vitality, strength, and divine energy. Though the people of Thamud themselves symbolically existed in the domain of Leo, the sign ruled by the Sun; but depriving the she-camel of water and inflicting harm upon her, the people of Thamud effectively rejected the Communion of the earth or the physical body.

In astrology, Leo is associated with qualities such as leadership, authority, and power. However, when these qualities are misused, they can lead to arrogance and a sense of entitlement. The actions of Thamud to dishonor the she-camel, a symbol of divine provision and grace, represents a severing of the sacred bond between humanity and the earth, thus violating the fundamental principles of stewardship and respect for creation. The earthquake that destroyed them can be seen as a symbolic manifestation of the divine response to their arrogance and defiance, thereby restoring equilibrium through the forces of nature.

The following set of verses from the chapter 88 are very indicative of the strong emphasis received by the mystery of Communion in the Quran.

17. Will they not regard the camels, how they are created?

18. And the heaven, how it is raised?

19. And the hills, how they are set up?

20. And the earth, how it is spread?

21. Remind them, for thou art but a remembrancer,

22. Thou art not at all a warder over them.

The physical outlook and attributes of a camel makes it a very fascinating creature. Despite inhabiting harsh desert environments where sustenance is scarce, the camel possesses remarkable resilience and adaptability. It appears to stretch itself upwards from the ground, symbolizing its ability to transcend limitations and endure extreme conditions. It also serves as a reliable mode of transportation and as a beast of burden in areas where no other transporting animal may survive the daunting conditions. Its ability to stretch the limits of perseverance without breaking down, makes it an ideal candidate to demonstrate the value of physical Communion. Even, if it does collapse after the diligent efforts for physical survival, it can still serve as a nourishing sustenance for its human companions in the desert. There might have been all kinds of animals found in nature with outstanding talents for survival under harsh conditions; however, their instincts are mostly limited to the advantage for their own good, but the efforts of a camel serve the humans both whilst it stands in honor, and whence it succumbs in grace. This dual role underscores the concept of physical Communion, which calls upon humans to serve the divine in a manner akin to that of the camel by enduring hardships, persevering through challenges, and ultimately offering sustenance and support to the rest of humankind.

The symbolism of hills in relation to Communion also presents a captivating perspective. Hills, in their physical form, stand as prominent features of the earth, reaching upward toward the heavens. Metaphorically, they represent the earthly realm aspiring to transcend its material limitations and connect with the divine. Similarly, the heavens with their vast expanse stretching above, seem to extend downward towards the hills, and thereby mirroring the earthly longing for transcendence. The reciprocal movement embodies the aspiration of the material world to reach towards the spiritual, and the subsequent desire of the spiritual to descend and merge with the material. This symbiotic relationship underscores the idea of Communion as a dynamic exchange between humanity and the divine, where earthly and celestial realms converge in a harmonious embrace around the hills, thus serving as potent symbols of spiritual aspirations of men, and his eternal quest for union with the divine.

Now that we have seen the basic theme of symbolism regarding the Communion, we may return to the chapter 41 for further exploration of the mystery.

34. The good deed and the evil deed are not alike. Repel the evil deed with one which is better, then lo! he, between whom and thee there was enmity (will become) as though he was a bosom friend.

35. But none is granted it save those who are steadfast, and none is granted it save the owner of great happiness.

The act of showing kindness towards those who would oppose or mistreat us reflects a profound nobility of character, and a transcendent understanding of human connection to the divine. This aspect is regarded as paramount, for it holds the power to elevate an individual to great spiritual heights by exalting his station to a level of true grandness. It requires individuals to rise above feelings of anger, resentment, and vengeance; and instead, to respond with an attitude of compassion, forgiveness, and empathy towards fellow mankind.

37. And of His portents are the night and the day and the sun and the moon. Do not prostrate to the sun or the moon; but prostrate to Allah Who created them, if it is in truth Him Whom ye worship.

38. But if they are too proud — still those who are with thy Lord glorify Him night and day, and tire not.

39. And of His portents (is this): that thou seest the earth lowly, but when We send down water thereon it thrilleth and groweth. Lo! He Who quickeneth it is verily the Quickener of the Dead. Lo! He is Able to do all things.

The significance of verse 37 lies in its portrayal of the sun and the moon as signs of God, thereby transforming them into instruments of human growth. This suggests that the physical and mental talents bestowed upon humans are not meant to be admired in isolation, but rather to be utilized for their spiritual advancement. In essence, the physical and mental attributes are not to be revered for their own sake, but for the positive impact they can have through the actions undertaken for the betterment of humanity.

Being human is not merely a matter of birth, but a privilege that must be earned through continual effort and dedication. Humanity's potential for growth is immense, but it can only be realized through persistent application and hard work. Just as the orbits of the sun and moon provide a stable foundation for human existence, they do not determine their ultimate destiny. Instead, it is the collective growth and evolution of humankind, guided by principles of symmetry and proportion that will unlock our true potential, and contribute to the unfolding of our grand destiny.

51. When We show favour unto man, he withdraweth and turneth aside, but when ill toucheth him then he aboundeth in prayer.

52. Bethink you: If it is from Allah and ye reject it — Who is further astray than one who is at open feud (with Allah)?

53. We shall show them Our portents on the horizons and within themselves until it will be manifest unto them that it is the Truth. Doth not thy Lord suffice, since He is Witness over all things?

54. How! Are they still in doubt about the meeting with their Lord? Lo! Is not He surrounding all things?

The verse 53 elucidates the hermetic law of symmetry and proportion by highlighting the interconnectedness of the macrocosm with its microcosmic essence, humanity. However, the journey of growth is inherently challenging and demanding; for a person will have to move against the gravity, against the friction, and against the slope through indomitable will and indefatigable efforts. The great spiritual insights are attained not through the pursuit of fleeting pleasures, but through the enduring commitment to self-mastery and alignment with higher principles. Contrary to the hedonistic attitudes that prioritize immediate pleasure and gratification; the true spiritual growth necessitates resilience, perseverance, and discipline. The pursuit of hedonistic pleasures may offer temporary satisfaction, but it ultimately leads to moral degradation and spiritual stagnation. By exerting relentless effort and maintaining a steadfast resolve, individuals can transcend their limitations and unlock the boundless potential within themselves; and thereby find their ultimate ascension to the plane of Communion.

The End Note

In the realm of existence, we often find ourselves navigating through a world characterized by vanity and illusion. However, despite the allure of deception, it is only a matter of time before the truth resurfaces, asserting itself with undeniable clarity. These moments of revelation, when reality unveils itself in all its raw authenticity, are profoundly transformative, and it is during these magical instances of reassertion that one can experience the most exhilarating states of Communion. I should conclude this article with the following verses from chapter 18 of the Quran.

109. Say: Though the sea became ink for the Words of my Lord, verily the sea would be used up before the words of my Lord were exhausted, even though We brought the like thereof to help.

110. Say: I am only a mortal like you. My Lord inspireth in me that your Allah is only One Allah. And whoever hopeth for the meeting with his Lord, let him do righteous work, and make none sharer of the worship due unto his Lord.