Diving Deep into the Word of God: A Sufi Approach to Religious and Trans-Religious Images

This study examines art inspired by Sufi thought in Bosnia and Herzegovina, focusing on the artistic contributions of Meliha Teparić (b. 1978 in Sarajevo), a Bosnian artist and professor of fine arts and the history of art. Teparić’s art, particularly in pieces like To Douse Out Hell and Burn Down Paradise and Gens Una Sumus, delves into Sufi thought, reflecting the belief that divine love transcends religious boundaries. Her work fosters trans-religious dialogue through visual expression. By employing a comparative analysis of Sufi symbolism alongside other religious traditions, this article reveals shared metaphysical values that emerge in her art. The findings emphasize the power of art in promoting spiritual connection and cross-cultural understanding in contemporary society. Ultimately, this study concludes that Teparić’s work embodies a core Sufi principle: the pursuit of divine love as a unifying force that transcends religious and cultural distinctions.