The motive in the narrative is hardened loyalty, fealty, and fidelity.
Also called the Illuminated Route, this view of the motives of Satan sees the refusal of worship or offering homage to humanity as an insistence the sovereign alone is worthy to receive. To give obeisance or prostration to mankind would be a singular offense of polytheism, or that of multiplying divinity.
On this view, Satan is the original zealous steward, disciple, constable, or warden.
This view of Satan's motives can be found in the Hasidic and Christian apocrypha listed on the right. In the Islamic tradition, it represents the Sufi view of the motives of Satan, which has a long and acknowledged tradition. The external links and sources listed below represent this particular tradition.
Excerpt from "Iblis, Abraham, and Teleological Suspension" by Hud Hudson.
External links and references:
Satan's Tragedy and Redemption: Iblis in Sufi Psychology
Devil's Advocates: Exoneration of Iblis in Persian Mysticism
"Ahmad Ghazali's Satan": G. Elmi
This view of Satan's motives can be found in the Hasidic and Christian apocrypha listed on the right. In the Islamic tradition, it represents the Sufi view of the motives of Satan, which has a long and acknowledged tradition. The external links and sources listed below represent this particular tradition.
That chevalier [jawānmard] Iblis says, “If others flee from Your assault[sayl], I will take it with my neck!”
- ʿAyn al-Quḍāt, Tamhīdāt, 224, § 289Internal links and references:
Excerpt from "Iblis, Abraham, and Teleological Suspension" by Hud Hudson.
External links and references:
Satan's Tragedy and Redemption: Iblis in Sufi Psychology
Devil's Advocates: Exoneration of Iblis in Persian Mysticism
"Ahmad Ghazali's Satan": G. Elmi
Ayn al-Quzat’s Defense of Satan: Interview with Dr. M. Rustom
