Between Shariah and Reality One must uphold the etiquettes of the sacred Shariah (Islamic law) and follow its outward commands as much as possible, for all spiritual ascension lies in obedience to the Divine law. As for the knowledge of realities (Haqiqah), it is akin to stating that “the sky…
On Detachment from the World One of the signs of a sincere seeker who has renounced the world is that worldly means become perpetually difficult for him, no matter how long he lives. This is due to the strength of his resolve in rejecting them, so that he wakes and…
On Spiritual Discipline and Sincerity Imam Shar’ani radiAllahu anhu writes: Imam Abu al-Mawahib al-Shadhili, radiAllahu used to say: “Whoever wishes to abandon the company of bad companions should begin with himself—by forsaking his own bad traits. His soul is the closest thing to him, and those who are closest to…
The Hadith: “My servant continues to draw near to Me with supererogatory works (nawafil) until I love him. When I love him, I become his hearing and his sight.” The nawafil, according to the people of the path, signify the annihilation of the servant in the witnessing of himself through…
Knowledge of the Gnostics All the knowledge that the creation possess is not equivalent to a single drop from the ocean (of knowledge) of the Gnostics (Awliyaa*). Before this knowledge (of the batin**) was unveiled to me, I used to think that knowledge is only that which…
Pride is the opposite of Faith Imam Abd al-Wahab al Sharani radiAllahu anhu Pride is opposite to faith (Imaan) How can you claim to be from the believers while you seek the qualities of the arrogant like praying on a raised platform and walking on decorated floors in the masjid…
