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

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.

Psychological impacts of Sufism in 21st Century in Pakistan

“…The qualitative analysis of this study indicates that identification of the problem, solution of the problem, free catharsis, psychological support and the altruistic behavior of the Sufi are those factors that may make the Sufi Psychology possible and considerable. These factors are similar with the finding of previous study (Dincer, 2016). This research also helped in clarifying some other concepts that were not sufficiently explained before.…”

Jung’s Simurg is on Freud’s Iceberg

“…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. The moral sentiment based on the perception of life is oriented to purify the negative attributes that sustain the illusory self to gain virtues that will allow experiencing the real self (Dinçer, 2016).…”

Multi-Cultural Counseling and Spiritual Interventions

“…Although the development in Turkey has been progressing more slowly, studies exist that have used spirituality in different consultations (Ekşi, 2017).A rich heritage has existed in Turkish society for centuries. For example, Yunus Emre's style, like in Anatolia where the centuriesold traditions were formed that built up a relationship between spiritual values and human beings, have similarities with modern human psychological approaches (Dinçer, 2016).…”