“Revisiting Ethical Governance in the Mystical Political Thought of Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani”

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Azadshahr

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, Islamic Azad University, Azadshahr Branch

Abstract

The relationship between mysticism and politics in the Islamic tradition has been a relatively underexplored topic. Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, a prominent mystic and thinker of the eighth century AH, was among the few figures who sought to integrate spirituality with social administration and governance. Although numerous studies have addressed the mystical and ethical dimensions of his works, the political aspect of Hamadani’s thought has received less systematic attention. This study, guided by the central question “What is the position of political mysticism in Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani’s thought, and what model of ideal governance does he propose?”, examines the components of political mysticism and the theoretical foundations of ethical governance in his works. The research adopts a qualitative approach, analyzing Hamadani’s key texts—Dakhira al-Muluk and Sab‘in—supplemented by historical sources and contemporary studies. Findings indicate that Hamadani views politics as a continuation of divine-oriented spiritual practice, portraying the ruler as a “responsible seeker and trustee of the people.” In his view, ideal governance is an ethical and spiritual institution whose objectives include the realization of social justice, promotion of welfare and security, development of the land, enhancement of moral virtues, and strengthening of social cohesion. In Hamadani’s thought, mysticism is not merely an individual experience but the foundation of legitimacy, balance, and sustainability of governance. Revisiting this model in contemporary times can inspire the design of ethical, justice-oriented, and development-focused governance systems.

Keywords

References

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Volume 15, Issue 57 - Serial Number 57
February 2026
Pages 125-147

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