fana (Annihilation)
Fana, or Annihilation, is a concept in Sufism that refers to the complete dissolution of the self or ego in the presence of the divine. It signifies a state where an individual loses their personal identity and experiences unity with God. This state is often seen as a crucial step in the spiritual journey toward enlightenment and deeper understanding.
In this context, fana is contrasted with baqa, which means subsistence or enduring existence. While fana represents the temporary loss of self, baqa signifies the return to existence, now transformed by the experience of divine unity. Together, these concepts illustrate the dynamic nature of spiritual growth in Islamic mysticism.