A Narratological Analysis of Mystical Encounters in the Tales of Tazkirat al-Awliya from the Perspective of Possible Worlds Theory

The present article offers a narratological analysis of mystical encounters in the stories of Tazkirat al-Awliya through the lens of Possible Worlds Theory. Using McHale and Ryan’s framework, it shows that mystical narratives, by creating possible worlds, blur the boundaries between reality and imagination. The various types of possible worlds—multiple, circular, and mental—are shaped by dreams, hypotheses, predictions, fantasies, desires, goals, and beliefs. These worlds reflect how mystical encounters are represented and how they influence spiritual practice. Through techniques such as merging reality and the supernatural, repetitive circular structures, and subjectivism, mystical encounters portray fluid possible worlds. Mental possible worlds in Tazkirat al-Awliya are not merely narrative tools but epistemic foundations for understanding mystical experience. In these stories, encounters with the unseen become possible worlds through language and imagery—a world where spiritual journey is narrated through circular, symbolic, and multi-layered structures. Purposeful repetition of patterns enables limitless possibilities for spiritual growth. This narrative structure presents the mystical journey in layered form, moving beyond linear progression and allowing the reader to face truth from diverse angles.