The Multiple Facets of Ismâ‘îlism

by Diana Steigerwald

Abstract:

This article provides a general overview of Ismâ‘îlî history, and three principal influences on the development of its theosophy: Neoplatonism, Sûfism, and Vaishnavism, with common underlying theme of Sophia Perennis manifesting in Ismâ‘îlî doctrine of the distinction between zâhir (external form) and bâtin (underlying truth).