Mulla Sadra and Metaphysics: Modulation of Being by Sajjad H. Rizvi – A Comprehensive Study in Islamic Philosophy and On

Introduction

Mulla Sadra is widely regarded as one of the most profound and original philosophers in the Islamic intellectual tradition, standing alongside Avicenna and Suhrawardi. In Mulla Sadra and Metaphysics: Modulation of Being, author Sajjad H. Rizvi offers a rigorous and accessible study of Sadra’s central metaphysical doctrine—the modulation of being (tashkik al-wujud). This hardcover volume from Routledge is an essential resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in Islamic philosophy, metaphysics, or the history of ideas. Written in clear, analytical English, the book bridges classical Islamic thought and contemporary philosophical inquiry, making it a valuable addition to any serious library.

Book Overview

This book provides a comprehensive examination of Mulla Sadra’s metaphysical system, focusing on the concept of the modulation of being as the cornerstone of his philosophy. Sajjad H. Rizvi situates Sadra within the broader context of Islamic philosophical traditions, particularly the Peripatetic, Illuminationist, and mystical schools. The work critically engages with Sadra’s magnum opus, the Asfar (The Four Journeys), a text often considered too dense for casual study. Rizvi unpacks its complexities, showing how Sadra’s philosophy is not merely abstract theory but a way of life and a therapeutic practice aimed at spiritual transformation. The book also traces the reception and critique of Sadrian thought through the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a fresh perspective on its enduring relevance.

Key Highlights

• First major analytical study of Mulla Sadra’s doctrine of the modulation of being in English
• Detailed engagement with the Asfar, making this challenging work accessible to modern readers
• Contextualizes Sadra within the intellectual history of the Islamic East, including interactions with Avicenna, Suhrawardi, and Ibn Arabi
• Critiques and builds upon existing scholarship, offering original insights into Sadrian metaphysics
• Explores philosophy as a therapeutic practice, linking metaphysics to spiritual and ethical life
• Includes analysis of later commentators and the continued relevance of Sadra in contemporary Islamic thought

Inside the Book

The book is structured to guide the reader from foundational concepts to advanced applications. It begins with a historical overview of Islamic philosophy and the life of Mulla Sadra, then delves into the nature of being and its modulation. Rizvi examines key aspects such as the primacy of being, the gradation of reality, and the relationship between essence and existence. Each chapter unpacks a specific dimension of Sadra’s thought, using clear examples and critical commentary. The final sections explore the legacy of Sadrian philosophy, including its influence on later figures such as Mulla Hadi Sabzawari and Allama Tabatabai. The book also includes a comprehensive bibliography and index, making it a valuable reference tool.

Key Topics

• The concept of modulation of being (tashkik al-wujud) as a metaphysical principle
• Mulla Sadra’s critique of Avicenna and Suhrawardi
• The primacy and gradation of existence (asalat al-wujud wa tashkik al-wujud)
• Philosophy as a way of life and spiritual practice
• Sadra’s ontology and its implications for epistemology and ethics
• The reception of Sadrian thought in the 19th and 20th centuries
• Comparative analysis with Western metaphysics

Reader Benefits

• Deepens understanding of one of the most challenging figures in Islamic philosophy
• Clarifies complex metaphysical ideas through careful, step-by-step analysis
• Bridges classical and modern thought, making Sadra relevant to contemporary philosophical debates
• Enhances appreciation of the therapeutic and transformative role of philosophy
• Provides critical tools for evaluating primary texts and secondary scholarship
• Ideal for self-study or classroom use, with clear chapter summaries and logical progression

Learning Outcomes

By reading this book, you will be able to: explain the central doctrine of the modulation of being in Sadra’s philosophy; critically analyze the Asfar and its key arguments; situate Sadra within the broader Islamic philosophical tradition; evaluate the strengths and limitations of Sadrian metaphysics; and apply these insights to contemporary issues in philosophy, theology, and spirituality. The book equips you with both historical knowledge and analytical skills essential for advanced study in Islamic thought.

Who Should Read

• Students of Islamic philosophy, theology, and metaphysics at undergraduate and postgraduate levels
• Scholars and researchers working on Sadra, Islamic intellectual history, or comparative philosophy
• Philosophers interested in non-Western metaphysical systems and their contemporary relevance
• Readers in India and South Asia seeking authoritative texts on Islamic philosophy
• Libraries and academic institutions building collections in religious studies and philosophy

About the Author

Sajjad H. Rizvi is a leading scholar of Islamic philosophy and intellectual history. He is Professor of Islamic Intellectual History and Director of the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, UK. His research focuses on post-Avicennan philosophy, particularly the Safavid and Qajar periods, as well as the intersection of philosophy, theology, and mysticism. Rizvi has published extensively on Mulla Sadra, and his work is known for its analytical rigor and historical depth. He brings to this book a rare combination of expertise in classical texts and modern philosophical methods, making him an ideal guide through Sadra’s complex world.

About the Publisher

Routledge is one of the world’s leading academic publishers, renowned for its high-quality books in philosophy, religion, and the humanities. With a history spanning over 180 years, Routledge is committed to publishing works that advance knowledge and foster critical thinking. This hardcover edition is produced to the highest standards, with durable binding and clear typography suitable for long-term use in libraries and personal collections. For Indian readers, Routledge titles are widely available through Bookshops.in, ensuring authentic and timely delivery.

Conclusion

Mulla Sadra and Metaphysics: Modulation of Being is an indispensable work for anyone serious about understanding Islamic philosophy. Sajjad H. Rizvi’s masterful analysis illuminates the heart of Sadra’s thought while remaining accessible to modern readers. Whether you are a student embarking on your first study of Sadra or a seasoned scholar seeking fresh perspectives, this book offers rich rewards. Order your hardcover copy from Bookshops.in today and explore the profound depths of being through the lens of one of Islam’s greatest philosophers.