Legacy of an Anatolian Sufi from a Psychological Perspective: Case of Yunus Emre

Author/s: Murat Dincer

DOI: 10.12738/spc.2016.1.0004 

Year: 2016 Vol: 1 Number: 1

Abstract

The Sufi perspective exhibited by Yunus Emre has provided an ontological comprehension that explains the meaning of existence and life. The origin of “self” or “ego” is based on the Soul that is Truth (Hakk) within this ontological understanding grounded in Oneness. It gives endless meaning to people as it refers to the value of humans not in terms of their individual attributes but their divine side. The only possible way to transition from the illusory formed self to the real self, the Soul, is through the love of Truth and with a mentor or guide that has experienced this love of Truth. The relationship that is established with the mentor or guide heals relational problems and has a nature that also frees humans from their biological, relational, societal, and psychological boundaries. One’s moral sentiment based on their perception of life is oriented to purify the negative attributes that sustain the illusory self to gain virtues that will allow one to experience the real self. Yunus has indicated an understanding of existence, meaning of life, and a remedial, liberating model of relating as well as an ethical approach towards humanity in this era of narcissism.

Keywords
Yunus Emre, Self, Human, Sufism, Psychology