Mystical Thoughts of Attar in the Ghazals of Qased

Abstract

Attar Nishapuri is one of the most influential poets and writers of Persian literature, holding a distinguished position in the development of mystical poetry. One of the fundamental concepts in the spiritual journey and mystical path is the passage through the seven valleys, which Attar Nishapuri elaborates particularly in his works. The present study examines the mystical tendencies of Qased in light of Attar Nishapuri’s seven valleys of spiritual journey, with the aim of exploring Qased’s intellectual perspective and approach to the major themes of mysticism. Using a descriptive and content-analysis methodology, the study demonstrates that Qased presents Attar’s seven valleys in a simple, intimate, and accessible language, avoiding excessive rhetorical and artistic ornamentation. The analysis of his poetry reveals a strong emphasis on ascetic and pious mysticism, in which he rejects worldly attachments and material desires and chooses the path of spiritual purification and eternal love as a means of attaining truth and spiritual knowledge.