University of Religions and Denominations
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Abstract
This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the concept of the Perfect Man and the methods of attaining it in the mystical thought of Jalal al-Din Rumi and the humanistic psychology of Carl Rogers. Employing thematic analysis alongside philosophical–conceptual inquiry, the research seeks to elucidate various dimensions of the Perfect Man, including its defining characteristics, stages of growth, obstacles, and practical approaches within both the mystical and psychological frameworks.
The findings indicate that, in Rumi’s intellectual system, the Perfect Man embodies the divine names and attributes, attaining the station of divine vicegerency through transcendence of the self, spiritual wayfaring, and annihilation in God. By contrast, in Rogers’ view, the fully functioning person is one who, through a dynamic psychological process of unconditional self-acceptance, authentic experience, and empathic relationships, achieves self-actualization and inner integration.
Despite fundamental epistemological and ontological differences between the two approaches, both emphasize inner growth, liberation from egocentrism, and movement toward human transcendence. These conceptual convergences create fertile ground for interdisciplinary dialogue and integrative applications of mystical and psychological teachings in education, psychotherapy, and personal development.
Ultimately, by highlighting both the convergences and divergences between Islamic mysticism and humanistic psychology, this study points to the potential synergy of the two traditions in addressing the spiritual and psychological crises of contemporary humanity, thereby opening new horizons for interdisciplinary research on human perfection.
This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the concept of the Perfect Man and the methods of attaining it in the mystical thought of Jalal al-Din Rumi and the humanistic psychology of Carl Rogers. Employing thematic analysis alongside philosophical–conceptual inquiry, the research seeks to elucidate various dimensions of the Perfect Man, including its defining characteristics, stages of growth, obstacles, and practical approaches within both the mystical and psychological frameworks.
The findings indicate that, in Rumi’s intellectual system, the Perfect Man embodies the divine names and attributes, attaining the station of divine vicegerency through transcendence of the self, spiritual wayfaring, and annihilation in God. By contrast, in Rogers’ view, the fully functioning person is one who, through a dynamic psychological process of unconditional self-acceptance, authentic experience, and empathic relationships, achieves self-actualization and inner integration.
Despite fundamental epistemological and ontological differences between the two approaches, both emphasize inner growth, liberation from egocentrism, and movement toward human transcendence. These conceptual convergences create fertile ground for interdisciplinary dialogue and integrative applications of mystical and psychological teachings in education, psychotherapy, and personal development.
Ultimately, by highlighting both the convergences and divergences between Islamic mysticism and humanistic psychology, this study points to the potential synergy of the two traditions in addressing the spiritual and psychological crises of contemporary humanity, thereby opening new horizons for interdisciplinary research on human perfection.
Keywords: Perfect Man, Rumi, Carl Rogers, Humanistic Psychology, Islamic Mysticism, Client-Centered Therapy
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