Müşâhede in astral projection and sufi metaphysics

In Sufism, Müşâhede means to see, watch and observe the divine truths. Astral projection, on the other hand, means the ability of consciousness to move temporarily independent of the physical body through the astral body and to go wherever it wishes. It is seen that Müşâhede, which is a spiritual quality, and astral projection, which is defined as an out-of-body experience, are compatible. In both, there is a transphysical vision. Compared to the term astral projection, which developed in the West, the concept of Müşâhede in Sufi literature is more comprehensive and dates back to ancient times in terms of historical process. Nevertheless, today, Müşâhede is not as popular as astral projection. According to Sadreddīn Qūnawī and Mullā Fenārī, the person who purifies his soul and discovers divine truths with his heart feels a spiritual pleasure because he receives knowledge in a pure state. On the other hand, the heart of the one who reaches divine truths in an impure state by making an effort with his own thoughts becomes spiritual dirt. According to this, it can be said that there are two ways to reach the transphysical experience. It is seen that the first of these is the people of Müşâhede who discipline their nafs and observe the manifestation of the names and attributes of Allah. These people, who are referred to as people of pleasure, feel spiritual pleasure because they observe the divine truth in a natural way in accordance with the nature. As a result of their love for Allah and their endeavours in worship, they observe the divine truths. The second refers to those who make astral projections with their own thoughts and desires by making an effort with exercises such as relaxation and breathing. Spiritual problems may occur in the hearts of these people because they reach the transphysical experience in an unnatural and unnatural way. In this context, it is seen that Sufism is the best way for those who want to enjoy and observe divine truths in a healthy way.