Another Branch of the Gnostic Tree of Life
Different Stages of Spiritual Advancement According to Ahl-e Haqq, a sect from the Kurdish region of Northern Iraq. Ahl-e Haqq, means "people of the Truth [HAQ],” and is one of several lesser-known or practically unknown religions from the Mesopotamian, Persian Gulf region, along with the Yazidis, Druze, Mandaeans, and various Sufi Orders... also the Baha'i Faith, though more have heard of the Baha'i Faith than the others.
Some familiar, universal teachings are to be found present in this somewhat Gnostic/Sufi religion.
According to Ah-l-e Haq beliefs there are four distinct stages in religious education and advancement. The first is called Shari’at (The holy writ, in which the religious laws and rituals are defined). This stage is considered the exoteric, ethical aspect of religion and embodies the outer actions of human beings.
After completion of this stage one arrives at the second stage called Tari-qat (the Path).
The third stage is called Mare-fat (gnosis, knowledge of spiritual realities), a mystical or experiential stage.
The fourth and final stage is called Haq-i-qat (The ultimate Truth). The last three stages combined form the esoteric aspect of religion encompassing not only the outward actions but also the inward thoughts and intentions, and mystical experience within...
According to Ahl-e Haqq, successful completion of this stage is the ultimate prerequisite of a human being to reach permanent proximity of the Creator. ( http://www.ahle-haqq.com/beliefs.html )
