Gnosis and Spirituality in Persian Sufism:
The Hermeneutics of Esotericism

Mr Milad Milani

Abstract: In the tradition of the eminent scholars R. A Nicholson, Henry Corbin, and Ehsan Yarshater, Mr Milani aims to further introduce and identify the significance of Persian and Iranian studies within the study of Comparative Religion and Western thought. His research is specifically concerned with both the hermeneutical significance of gnosis and spirituality, in Persian Sufism, and the historiographical role that Sufism plays within Islam. In a broader scope, he aims to define this ‘gnosis’ and ‘spirituality’ as the phenomenological foundation of mystical understanding, and, more importantly, as indications of a perennial force that continues to feed esoteric currents through the ages.

Bio: Milad Milani is currently undertaking his Ph.D. degree at the Department of Studies in Religion at the University of Sydney. He finished his undergraduate degree by completing a double major in Philosphy and Religion. Pursuing interests in the field of comparative religion lead Milad to complete his Honours Year with the Department of Studies in Religion specializing in the literary works of the enigmatic 14th century poet, Hafiz.