Harqal

Harqal is a term that appears primarily within Islamic esoteric traditions, particularly within some Sufi orders and hermetic or alchemical interpretations of Islamic teachings. It generally refers to an archetypal realm or subtle body, often associated with the imaginative or intermediate world ('alam al-mithal in Arabic).

The concept of Harqal is complex and multifaceted, and its meaning can vary depending on the specific context and interpreter. It is frequently linked to:

• The Imaginal Realm: Harqal is often seen as synonymous or closely related to the 'alam al-mithal, the imaginal world. This realm is neither purely physical nor purely spiritual but exists as an intermediary plane where spiritual realities can manifest in forms accessible to the human imagination. It serves as a bridge between the sensible world and the world of pure intellect.

• The Perfect Nature: In some interpretations, Harqal is associated with the perfected or idealized human form, reflecting the potential for spiritual realization and the attainment of one's true essence. It represents a state of being beyond the limitations of the physical body.

• Inner Transformation: The journey to or through Harqal can be understood as a metaphor for the process of inner transformation and spiritual growth. It symbolizes the seeker's passage from the ordinary, limited self towards a higher state of consciousness.

• Alchemy and Hermeticism: Harqal is also found in some alchemical and hermetic contexts, where it can signify a stage in the transmutation process or a specific substance with transformative properties. The precise meaning within these traditions can be highly symbolic and esoteric.

Key figures associated with the concept of Harqal include:

• Suhrawardi: The philosopher Shihab al-Din Yahya ibn Habash as-Suhrawardi, founder of the Illuminationist school of Islamic philosophy, significantly developed the concept of the 'alam al-mithal, which is closely related to Harqal.

• Ibn Arabi: The renowned Sufi mystic Ibn Arabi also discussed concepts related to the imaginal realm and the role of the imagination in spiritual perception, further contributing to the understanding of ideas linked to Harqal.

Understanding Harqal requires delving into the complex vocabulary of Islamic esotericism, particularly the concepts of the 'alam al-mithal, the human microcosm, and the processes of spiritual transformation. Further research into the works of Suhrawardi, Ibn Arabi, and other Sufi masters is crucial for gaining a deeper appreciation of this intricate concept.