The Arabic word ‘aql refers to the intellect that combines reason and the higher intellect in the sense of intelligence-understanding, or mind-heart (Durham, 2007). Such an intelligence transcends the limiting conditions of the mind” (Durham, 2007). Throughout the history, such a higher faculty of intellection has been seen as the means of approaching the Divine Intellect by eminent scholars such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna). It is through this intellect, that man can understand the inner essence or principles of created things by means of direct apprehension or spiritual perception. Dwelling in the depth of the soul and constituting the innermost aspect of the Heart, the intellect is not only an organ of contemplation (Durham, 2007). This faculty provides us with the capacity to penetrate to mythical, archetypal and symbolic meanings. As Pascal said “We know the truth, not only by reason, but also by the heart”.
The word ‘aql' encompasses all reason, insight, conceptualisation through language, direct spiritual perception and a moral dimension; so it refers to the multi-levelled conception of intellect (Durham, 2007). The moral and cognitive dimensions are therefore intertwined, and not separated. In a hierarchically ordered conception of human faculties, cognitive psychology is part of moral philosophy, which is itself derived from, and subordinate to, spiritual revelation (Durham, 2007). This is also evident in the the Arabic conception of ‘excellence’ that is inseparable from goodness and virtue, whereas the Western conception of ‘excellence’ is limited to personal mastery, achievement and success (Durham, 2007).
Investigators in different fields who are now questioning the definition of intelligence accepted by many scientists, are also are advancing concepts such moral intelligence and ‘wisdom’ in addition to social or moral intelligence. The mention of the word "wisdom" should also be noted; it basically refers to a blend of knowledge and understanding within one’s being manifested in personal integrity, conscience, and effective behaviour.”
According to Crow, “the mystery of human intelligence or cognition is the subject of current neurological-based studies in the field of ‘cognitive psychology’”. He concludes that one of the key components of the concept of ‘aql was “ethical-spiritual: teaching how to rectify one’s integrity and to cause one’s human impulses, faculties and latent powers to flourish, with the purified emotions promoting the operation of a higher intelligence” (Durham, 2007).
