What's the Purpose?
It's true that I've read very few books like Hayy Ibn Yaqzān. I think the closest that I've gotten was when I read Les Misérables, which also had philosophy-esque elements to it. However, Hayy Ibn Yaqzān, unles Les Misérables, serves no entertainment purpose. Rather, the plot is a vessel for the philosophical ideas presented.
As for the purpose of the book itself, I believe that it's to reflect the development of man, past and future. We see Hayy beginning like early hominids, defenseless and weak. He begins to develop (fire, clothes, weapons, etc.) and eventually creates his own ideas regarding religion. After reaching true enlightenment, his sprituality is contrasted with the general public's ignorance. In the end, he and Absāl return to seclusion, where they both achieve enlightenment.
Whereas Hayy's physical achievements reflect humanity's past evolution, his spiritual development shows what Tufayl hopes for the future of humanity. His reaching enlightenment is seen as the ultimate goal in life, the "endpoint" to humanity's achievement. In showing the general populace's ignorance, he shows where humanity in terms of reaching this endpoint and how, without change and open-mindedness, it will be impossible for people to reach true happiness through enlightenment. However, Hayy is able to successfully teach Absāl to reach enlightenment, which indicates how there is hope yet, so long as one is willing to learn.
I agree that Tufayl uses Hayy as an example for his "ideal believer" who fully gives themselves up to God without any external forces motivating them.
ReplyDeleteI had not thought as much the meaning behind Hayy's interactions with Absāl, so I really appreciate your insight.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great argument, Jenna.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with your point that Hayy Ibn Yaqzan serves no entertainment purpose but is simply a way to distribute philosophical ideas. While it was written within the castaway genre, it contains such complex and sophisticated philosophical topics that one wouldn't necessarily categorize as "fun to read."
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