THE COSMIC REALMS IN SUFISM

THE COSMIC REALMS IN SUFISM

In Islamic mysticism and Sufism, the cosmic realms are often discussed to explain the layers of existence beyond the physical world. These realms are not explicitly categorized in the Qur’an or Hadith in this way, but they are drawn from various Islamic philosophical and mystical traditions.

1. Alam al-Nasoot (عالم الناسوت) – The Physical World

This is the material realm where humans live.

It includes everything that can be perceived by the senses.

Governed by physical laws and time.

Humans, animals, plants, and all tangible creations exist here.

2. Alam al-Malakoot (عالم الملكوت) – The Spiritual Realm

This is the realm of the unseen, including angels, spirits, and divine decrees.

It is considered a higher vibrational realm than the physical world.

Angels and other non-physical beings reside here.

It is accessible through deep spiritual practices, dreams, and divine inspiration.

Mentioned in the Qur’an:
“Thus did We show Ibrahim the kingdom (Malakoot) of the heavens and the earth…” (Quran 6:75).

3. Alam al-Jabaroot (عالم الجبروت) – The Realm of Divine Power

This is a higher realm of divine majesty and absolute power.

The realm of Allah’s direct command (“Kun fayakun” – Be, and it is”).

Angels of high rank, such as Jibreel (Gabriel), are said to belong here.

It is beyond human perception but can be experienced through spiritual ascension (Miraj of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ).

4. Alam al-Lahoot (عالم اللاهوت) – The Divine Realm of Pure Oneness

This is the realm of pure divinity, where Allah’s essence is beyond comprehension.

It represents the absolute existence of Allah, where nothing else exists.

It is considered beyond time, space, and creation.

Some Sufi scholars believe that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, during Miraj (Ascension), experienced a glimpse of this realm when he reached Sidratul Muntaha.

This realm cannot be entered by any being; it is purely Allah’s domain.

5. Alam al-Barzakh (عالم البرزخ) – The Intermediate Realm (Between Life & Hereafter)

The realm where souls go after death but before the Day of Judgment.

It is a state between this world and the next.

Souls experience the consequences of their deeds while waiting for resurrection.

Described in the Qur’an:
“And behind them is a barrier (Barzakh) until the Day they are resurrected.” (Quran 23:100).

6. Alam al-Araf (عالم الأعراف) – The Heights Between Heaven & Hell

A temporary realm on the Day of Judgment where those with equal good and bad deeds will wait for Allah’s judgment.

Mentioned in Surah Al-A’raf (7:46-49).

MYSTICAL INTERPRETATION & RELEVANCE

Sufi scholars believe spiritual seekers can ascend through these realms through deep worship, dhikr, fasting, and devotion.

Prophets and Awliya (saints) may gain glimpses of these realms through divine inspiration.

Dreams and visions can sometimes be messages from the Malakoot realm.

The Night Journey (Isra wa Miraj) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is considered a journey through these realms.