The Language of the Future
Sufi Terminology
by Murshid F.A. Ali ElSenossi

ta'ayyun
Self-determination

(Ta'ayyun). To be or to become an entity. Ta'ayyun is self-determination or entification or individualisation. This term is applied to the process of descent through which Pure Being gradually becomes qualified. Man is Absolute Being limited by ta'ayyun ('individualisation).

See also: Ascension of Decomposition Ascent of composition Descent of Being Divine Presence First Determination Second Determination

Ascent of composition ( 'uruj at-tarkib )

('Uruj at tarkib).The supra-formal spiritual ascent of composition (which is actually a descent), during which man journeys from inward non-manifestation within the Knowledge of Allah to outward manifestation within the world. Man's Return Journey to Allah is the spiritual ascent of decomposition.

Descent of Being ( tanazzul (tanzil) )

(Tanazzul/tanzil). The Descent of Being by means of the Divine Revelation. This is the descent of the Absolute from Total Inwardness, through the various degrees, to Outward Manifestation. The beautiful Hadith Qudsi says, "I was a Hidden Treasure and I loved to be known and so I created the creations and through Me they knew me". Man's descent through the Five Presences, from inward non-manifestation within the Knowledge of Allah to outward manifestation within the world, is known as the spiritual ascent of composition ('uruj at-tarkib). His Return Journey back through the Five Presences to Allah, is known as the spiritual ascent of decomposition (mi'raj at-tahlil). The Divine Revelation makes Its Descent (tanazzul) in order for man to ascend along that Pure Radiation of Divine Light back to the Sacred Source. 'Allah took a handful of His Light and said to It 'Be! Muhammad.' And It was'. The descent (tanazzul) of Being is through the Holy Prophet Muhammad himself, through his Reality (al haqiqat al Muhammadiyyah). And the ascent to Being is through the Holy Prophet. Allah Almighty becomes known through His Beloved Prophet Muhammad. May Allah Bless him and give him Eternal Peace.

First Determination ( ta'ayyun awwal )

(Ta'ayyun Awwal). The First Entification or the First Epiphany or the First Determination or the First Descent. This is the World of Invincibility, the Reality of Muhammad, the Inscribed Book. Its other Names include 'Or Nearer', the Veil of Glory and True Love.

Second Determination ( ta'ayyun thani )

(Ta'ayyun thani). The Second Entification or Second Epiphany. This is the Angelic Realm and is also known as the Imagination. The Lote Tree of the Uttermost Boundary, the Breath of the All Merciful and the Cloud. This is the Supreme Isthmus.

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