Quran Surah 16:44 Mysticism and Magic in the Quran

"We sent Messengers before you with Signs of Light, and we sent Books of Shadows. And unto you, Oh Mohammed, we have also sent the Message that you may explain clearly to humans what we have sent to them previously, and that they may recollect."

In 16:44 we discover two means by which the Spirit has revealed itself unto humans. The first, "Signs of Light," points towards those many esoteric Gnostic books delivered by mystics and prophets. The second points towards secret "books of shadows" developed by sorcerers. The first is designed to guide the disciples towards the inner world; the latter towards the outer world. The first reveals the means by which one may overcome the lower self (nafs) and move towards union with the Light. The latter presents the means by which one may produce magical spells to affect change in the world of matter for the furtherance of the Kingdom.

The Glorious Qur’an has both functions. Many passages guide one towards union with Light (as taught by the Prophets Jesus, Buddha, Krishna, Lao Tsu, etc). Other passages are designed to be used as spells to thwart evil and encourage good (as taught by Al Khidr).

By studying the Qur’an and mastering both mysticism and magic the Sufi recollects his/her True nature.

For more Rose Crescent commentary on the Glorious Qur'an click here.