Secret of Yaqīn in Light of the Gnostic Teachings of Sheikh BOšnjak

Abstract

In the process of human self-actualization, the concept of firm conviction (yaqīn) is one of the most important, we could even say central segments of Gnostic doctrine, since Sufi leaders call it a “vehicle” on which a salik (a spiritual traveler) travels, through the horizons of his own microcosmic worlds. And starting a journey is inconceivable without a ride / vehicle. Question of yaqīn has been also the subject of interest of Sheikh Abdullah Bošnjak to which he dedicated one of his Epistles. In the first part of the paper there is a summary of firm conviction based on early Gnostic sources. In the second part of the paper firm conviction is treated in light of the Gnostic teachings of Sheikh Bošnjak who in an original way reflects on the issue, contemplating it from two different aspects: in relation to the level of God’s friends (awliyā) and in relation to Muhammedian spiritual reality.