An Analysis of the Nature of Art in the Mirror of Iranian-Islamic Spirituality from Ali Shariati's Perspective

This study aims to explore the nature of art from Dr. Ali Shariati's perspective, addressing how his intellectual discourse presents art—as a nexus between art, religion, and mysticism—as a tool for returning to the self and revitalizing the identity of contemporary Iranians. As the title suggests, the theoretical framework of this research is grounded in the analysis of Shariati's discourse and his approach to art as a convergence of spiritual transcendence, aesthetic spirituality, and social responsibility. Shariati regards art as an epistemological and existential strategy for liberating modern humanity from alienation and reclaiming an authentic selfhood, one forged through the dynamic interplay of religion, mysticism, and art.

The research adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology, examining Shariati's written works, lectures, and articles to analyze his thought on art within the framework of Iranian-Islamic epistemology. Findings reveal that Shariati holds an objective view of art, seeing it as a manifestation of truth emerging from spiritual abstraction. By linking art to mysticism and religion, he positions it not only as a path to human spirituality and transcendence but also as an instrument for social critique and resistance against cultural passivity.

This study demonstrates that Shariati, emphasizing the necessity of returning to the self, envisions art as a bridge between traditional values and modern needs—one capable of liberating contemporary Iranians from identity crises and guiding them toward inner unity and social elevation. Thus, Shariati's perspective on art blends mysticism, religious conviction, and humanism, shaped by historical and social contexts.