Wazifa

SHARIAT AND TASAWWUF
KHALIFATULLAH................................................................................................7
ABOUT THE AUTHOR.........................................................................................7

ANCESTRY...........................................................................................................7
EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL TRAINING........................................................9
KHILAAFAT..........................................................................................................9
SPIRITUAL INTUITION AND INSPIRATION (WAARIDAATE QALBIYYAH). 10
RU’YAA SAALIHAH OR TRUE DREAMS.........................................................11
SOME NOTEWORTHY ‘MUBASH-SHIRAAT’ OF HADHRAT
MASEEHULLAH................................................................................................11
JALALABAD.......................................................................................................11
THE HOLY CHISTIYYA, MASEEHIYYAH, ASHRAFIYYAH, IMDAADIYYAH
SPIRITUAL TREE..............................................................................................12
INTRODUCTION (BY THE AUTHOR)............................................................14
TASAWWUF THE NATURE OF TASAWWUF................................................15
THE NEED FOR TASAWWUF...........................................................................15
TASAWWUF AND THE QUR’AAN...................................................................16

STATEMENTS OF THE SUFIYA......................................................................18
THE TECHNICAL TERMS OF SHARTAT AND TAREEQAT...........................19
SHARIAT, TAREEQAT, HAQEEQAT AND MA’RIFAT................................19
BAY’T.....................................................................................................................21
THE MODE OF BAY’T....................................................................................22
TA’LEEM (INSTRUCTION) AT THE TIME OF BAY’T...................................22
MUHASABAH....................................................................................................24
MURAQABA-E-MAUT.......................................................................................24
THE NATURE OF BAY’T.................................................................................24
THE NEED FOR A SHAIKH.............................................................................25
A LETTER AND ITS REPLY............................................................................26
THE SIGN OF SHAIKH-E-KAMIL (QUALIFIED SHAIKH).......................28
MUNASABAT (CONGENIALITY) WITH THE SHAIKH.................................30
THE BENEFITS OF THE COMPANIONSHIP OF A SHAIKH-E-KAMIL.........30
HUQOOQ (RIGHTS) OF THE SHAIKH............................................................31
MUJAAHADAH....................................................................................................33
THE NATURE OF MUJAAHADAH.................................................................................33
THE NEED FOR MUJAAHADAH..................................................................................34
MODERATION IN MUJAAHADAH..................................................................................35
THE TYPES OF MUJAAHADAH...................................................................................35
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Summary.............................................................................................................36
THE EXPOSITION OF THE FOUR FUNDAMENTALS OF
MUJAAHADAH IJMAALI.................................................................................37
TAQLEEL-E-KALAAM (REDUCING SPEECH)..................................................................38
Explanation of “Necessary”..............................................................................39
The Remedy.........................................................................................................40
QILLAT-E-TA’AM (REDUCING FOOD)..........................................................................41
QILLAT-E-MANAAM (REDUCING SLEEP)......................................................................42
Moderation in Qillat-e-Manaam........................................................................43
Qillat-e-Ikhtilaat Ma’al Anaam (Reducing association with people)...............44
THE BENEFITS OF SOLITUDE (KHALWAT).....................................................................46
THE BENEFITS OF ASSOCIATION (IKHTILAT)..................................................................46
The Effective Method..........................................................................................47
AKHLAAQ............................................................................................................47
THE I’TIDAAL (EQUILIBRIUM) AND HUSAN (BEAUTY) OF THE FOUR

INTERNAL FACULTIES.....................................................................................48
THE FACULTY OF KNOWLEDGE (ILM).........................................................................49
THE FACULTY OF WRATH AND THE FACULTY OF DESIRE....................................................49
THE FACULTY OF JUSTICE........................................................................................49
ABOUT THE FACULTY OF WRATH...............................................................................49
ABOUT THE FACULTY OF DESIRE................................................................50
ABOUT AQL (INTELLIGENCE)........................................................................50
ALL AKHLAAQ ARE NATURAL........................................................................51
KINDS OF AKHLAAQ.......................................................................................51
AKHLAAQ-E-HAMEEDAH.............................................................................52
TAUHEED..........................................................................................................52
THE NATURE OF TAUHEED...........................................................................52
IKHLAAS (SINCERITY).....................................................................................53
THE NATURE OF IKHLAAS............................................................................53
ACQUISITION OF IKHLAAS..........................................................................53
THE BENEFITS OF IKHLAAS..........................................................................53
TAUBAH................................................................................................................54
THE NATURE OF TAUBAH.........................................................................................54
THE NEED FOR TAUBAH..........................................................................................55
THE WAY OF MAKING TAUBAH...................................................................55
THE METHOD OF ACQUIRING TAUBAH......................................................56
MUHABBAT..........................................................................................................56
THE NATURE OF MUHABBAT.......................................................................57
THE CAUSES OF MUHABBAT........................................................................57
ACQUIRING THE MUHABBAT OF ALLAH....................................................58
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SHOUQ...................................................................................................................58
THE NATURE OF SHOUQ...............................................................................58
ACQUIRING SHOUQ.......................................................................................59
THE NATURE OF UNS.....................................................................................59
KHAUF...................................................................................................................60
NATURE OF KHAUF.................................................................................................60
RAJAA....................................................................................................................61
NATURE OF RAJAA.................................................................................................62
ZUHD......................................................................................................................62
NATURE OF ZUHD...................................................................................................62
TAWAKKUL..........................................................................................................63
THE NATURE OF TAWAKKUL.......................................................................63
THE FUNDAMENTALS (ARKAN) OF TAWAKKUL.......................................64
MA’RIFAT...........................................................................................................64
HAALAT..............................................................................................................64
A’MAL.................................................................................................................64
ACQUIRING TAWAKKUL..................................................................................65
QANA’AT...............................................................................................................65
HILM......................................................................................................................65
SABR......................................................................................................................65
NATURE OF SABR...........................................................................................65
THE TYPES OF SABR......................................................................................66
SABR ALAL AMAL.............................................................................................66
SABR FIL AMAL.................................................................................................66
SABR ANIIL AMAL.............................................................................................66
NI’MAT AND MUSEEBAT.................................................................................66
ACQUIRING SABR............................................................................................68
SHUKR...................................................................................................................68
THE NATURE OF SHUKR................................................................................68
ACQUIRING SHUKR.........................................................................................70
SIDQ.......................................................................................................................70
THE NATURE OF SIDQ...................................................................................70
ACQUIRING SIDQ.............................................................................................71
TAFWEEZ.............................................................................................................71
THE NATURE OF TAFWEEZ...........................................................................72
THE WAY OF ACQUIRING TAFWEEZ.............................................................72
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RIDHAA (PLEASURE)........................................................................................73
THE NATURE OF RIDHAA..............................................................................73
ACQUISITION OF RIDHAA..............................................................................74
FANAA (ANNIHILATION)..................................................................................74
NATURE OF FANAA........................................................................................74
ACQUISITION OF FANAA..............................................................................74
FANAA-UL-FANAA (ANNIHILATION OF ANNIHILATION).........................75
AKHLAAQ-E-RAZIELAH (THE LOWLY AND DESPICABLE
ATTRIBUTES)......................................................................................................75
HIRS (GREED).....................................................................................................75
THE NATURE OF HIRS....................................................................................75
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................76
TAMA’ (COVETING-DESIRE)...........................................................................76
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................77
GHUSSAH (ANGER)...........................................................................................77
The Remedy.........................................................................................................79
DAROGH (FALSEHOOD)..................................................................................79
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................80
HASAD (JEALOUSY ENVY)..............................................................................80
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................81
BUKHL (NIGGARDLINESS, STINGINESS)...................................................81
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................82
RIYAA (SHOW)....................................................................................................82
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................83
UJUB (VANITY)....................................................................................................84
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................85
TAKABBUR (PRIDE)..........................................................................................85
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................86
HIQD (MALICE, AVARICE)...............................................................................86
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................87
HUBB-E-JAH (LOVE FOR FAME)...................................................................87
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................88
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HUBB-E-DUNYA (LOVE OF THE WORLD)...................................................89
THE REMEDY....................................................................................................91
THE ATWAL WAY...............................................................................................91
THE AUSAT WAY................................................................................................91
THE AQAL WA AQRAB WAY.............................................................................92
DYING BEFORE DEATH..................................................................................92
DOMINATION OF AKHLAAQ-E-HAMEEDAH............................................93
AL-KHAWATIR (THOUGHTS).........................................................................93
THE DISTINGUISHING SIGNS OF THE EVIL FROM ALLAH, THE NAFS
AND SHAITAAN..............................................................................................94
HOW TO RECOGNIZE IF THE KHAATIR OF KHAIR IS FROM ALLAH
OR SHAITAAN.....................................................................................................95
THE NATURE OF NAFS.....................................................................................98

AMMAARAH...................................................................................................98
LAW-WAAMAH...............................................................................................98
MUT-MAINNAH...............................................................................................98
THE TYPES OF THOUGHTS AND THEIR HUKM (EFFECT)...................98
HAAJIS.............................................................................................................98
KHAATIR.........................................................................................................98
HADEETHUN NAFS........................................................................................99
HUMM..............................................................................................................99
AZM..................................................................................................................99
THE SIGNS OF THE ACQUISITION OF NISBAT WITH ALLAH TA’ALA
.................................................................................................................................99
NISBAT IMA’ALLAAH....................................................................................99
LATAA-IF-SITTAH AND THEIR EFFECTS..................................................100
CONDITIONS FOR IJAAZAT..........................................................................101
THE JOURNEY OF SULOOK..........................................................................102

SER ILAL-LAAH............................................................................................102
SER FIL-LAAH...............................................................................................102
SEARCHING FOR ANOTHER SHAIKH.......................................................103
MAWAANI’ (IMPEDIMENTS).........................................................................104
THE MEANING OF MUNAASABAT.............................................................106
THE HARMS OF UMUR-E-GHAIR IKHTIYAARIYAH.............................107
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THE DEVOTIONAL PRACTICES OF THE SAALIK..................................109
THE EXERCISE OF PAAS ANFAAS...............................................................112
NAFL FASTING..................................................................................................112
BOOKS TO BE STUDIED.................................................................................113
NASEEHAT SPECIALLY FOR THOSE INVOLVED IN THIKR AND

SHAGHL..............................................................................................................113
IMPORTANT ADVICE FOR THE SAALIK...................................................114
FURTHER ADMONITION................................................................................119
ADMONITION IN GENERAL........................................................................123
ALLAH TA’ALA SAYS:..................................................................................123
AN EPISODE––TO REFLECT!........................................................................124
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KHALIFATULLAH
“And join the ranks of the Saadiqeen (Auliyaa).”

(Qur’aan)
A SINCERE Wali of Allah is the Representative (Khalifah) of Allah Ta’ala

on earth. He is the rooh (soul) of creation. All creation exists on his
presence. Everything supplicates for the grace emanating from his spiritual
effulgence. His heart and I brain are the repositories of Divine Knowledge
and Grace. Allah Ta’ala has decreed him (the Wall) as His special servant
and has grated him the closest of proximity. Allah Ta’ala has expanded his
breast for the understanding of the meaning of His Kalaam (The Qur’aan
Shareef). Allah Ta’ala has granted him the Knowledge of the Qur’aan and
has revealed to him the inner meanings and realities of the verses so that he
may guide mankind and cure its spiritual maladies. He (the Wall) has been
appointed by Allah Ta’ala to execute the obligation of Amr Bil Ma’roof
(Commanding virtue) and Nahu anil Munkar (prohibiting evil). He (the
Wali) cleanses the hearts from impurities and the intelligence from deception
thus elevating people onto Siraatul Mustaqeem. Such a person is the true
Khalifah of Allah Ta’ala on earth. He is the ultimate purpose for the creation
of the universe. He is the follower of the example of Nabi (ρ). He is the
guard of Tauheed. He is the basis for the salvation of mankind. I emphasise
that you make incumbent upon you the association with such a person and
benefit from his spiritual grace.
(Hadhrat Qutb Rabbaani, Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilaani R.A.)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ANCESTRY
Hadhrat Maseehul Ummat, Maulana Mohammed Maseehullah Khan, one of
the greatest of authorities in Tasawwuf of our times, hails from the
renowned and distinguished Sherwaani family of Pathans. Although the
Sherwaani clan is famed as Pathan, it in reality is Sayyid in its origin, for its
ancestral progenitor was Sayyid Husain Ghauri R.A. who migrated from
Ghaur during the reign of Khalif Abdul Maalik Bin Marwaan (d. 65 A.H.)
and settled in the region neighbouring ‘Koohe Sulaimaan.’ Sayyid Husain
Ghauri R.A. settled among the Pathans and married the daughter of Batan
Bin Qais Abdur Rashid. She bore him two sons, Lodi and Serwaani. The
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descendants of Serwaani became known as Sherwaani. It is then to this
family of Sayyids that Hadhrat Maseehullah Khan Saheb belongs.
Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb was born in 1329 or 1330 A.H. at Barlah,

District Aligarh, India. Born a saint, he was from early childhood the
repository of piety and sterling qualities. His virtue, excellence of character,
simplicity and dignity were acknowledged by all who came into contact with
him even during his childhood. A considerable part of his time during
childhood was spent in Zikr and supererogatory acts of Ibaadat. A favourite
occupation of Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb during his early youth was to sit
in the company of the Saaliheen and Auliyaa. In this regard the
companionship of Hadhrat Maulana Muhammad Ilyaas R.A., the Khalifah
of Hadhrat Shaikhul Hind R.A. is noteworthy. It was this companionship
during childhood days which introduced Hakeemul Ummat Hadhrat
Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi R.A. to Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb. Sitting in
the company of Hadhrat Muhammad Ilyaas R.A. the young Maseehullah,
heard with eagerness the incidents, talks and advices of Hakeemul Ummat
R.A. Studying the works of Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. at the hands of Hadhrat
Maulana Muhammad Ilyaas R.A. engendered in Hadhrat Maseehullah
Saheb a yearning, faith and love for Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi
R.A. An outstanding feature of Hadhrat Maseehullah’s character is the
dominant qualities of ‘hayaa’ (modesty) and tenderness. Hadhrat Allamah
Mufti A’zam Saeed Ahmad Lucknowi R.A., Ustaad of Hadhrat
Maseehullah, who witnessed the life of Hadhrat Maseehullah from early
childhood observed:
“From childhood he (Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb has been the

repository of modesty, dignity, respect, forbearance, ingenuity,
intelligence and commendable attributes (‘ausaffe hameedah’).”
Hadhrat Mufti Saeed Ahmad Lucknowi (rahmatullah alayh) – a great

Faqeeh and Muhaddith – who had attained perfection in many branches of
learning, despite being the Ustaad of Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb, turned
towards him (Hadhrat Maseehullah) for spiritual guidance after the demise
of Hakeeemul Ummat Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi R.A., who had
bestowed even the mantle of Khilaafat (spiritual mentorship) upon Hadhrat
Mufti Saheb. This act of Hadhrat Saeed Ahmad R.A. is ample testimony of
the fact that Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb is a born saint who has attained
spiritual perfection.
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EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL TRAINING
Hadhrat Maseehullah’s initial educational training commenced in his
hometown. The greater part of the Islamic syllabus up to the stage of
Mishkaat Shareef was acquired from Hadhrat Mufti Saeed Ahmad. From
Mishkaat Shareef and Hidaayah onwards up to completion of the Aalim-
Faadhil course was undertaken at the famous Islamic institute of learning,
Darul Uloom, Deoband. He passed his student days in perfect solitude and
was totally engrossed in the acquisition of ‘Ilm’. At the same time he was a
Mureed of Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. and as a result of his elevated spiritual
rank, he occupied a distinguished position of honour and respect among
students and Ulama as well.
It was already noted that a spiritual link of faith and love with Hadhrat
Thanvi R.A. was already established during his early childhood days. The
first time that Hadhrat Maseehullah saw Hakeemul Ummat Hadhrat
Maulana Thanvi R.A. was at Aligarh during the year when he (Hadhrat
Maseehullah) left for Deoband in pursuit of his Islamic education. The same
year Hadhrat Maseehullah established his ‘Islaahi’ (spiritual rectification)
connection with Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. Since that time he has been in
constant communication with Hadhrat Thanvi R.A.
KHILAAFAT
The year when Hadhrat Maseehullah qualified in his Islamic studies at Darul
Uloom, Deoband, Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. conferred upon him the spiritual
Mantle of Khilaafat authorising him to ‘talqeene bai’t’ (initiation of
Mureeds) and to conduct the spiritual training of Mureeds.
Among the various Khulafaa of Hakeemul Ummat R.A. Hadhrat

Maseehullah Saheb occupies a highly distinguished rank. Hadhrat
Maseehullah was appointed as a Khaleefah at an early age, however, despite
his relative youth. Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. listed him among eleven of his
distinguished Khulafaa (Spiritual Representatives). This list was later
published.
Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. had special reliance on the spiritual programmes and
methods of spiritual training (islaah, ta’leem and tarbiyat) initiated by
Hadhrat Maseehullah. As a result of this reliance, Hakeemul Ummat R.A.
would refer certain Mureeds to Hadhrat Maseehullah for spiritual training.
As has been already observed that among all the Khulafaa of Hakeemul
Ummat R.A., Hadhrat Maseehullah enjoys a distinguished rank of
9
prominence. This was attested to by none other than Hakeemul Ummat
himself. Once, upon someone’s enquiry, Hadhrat Thanvi R.A. said:
“ISAA AND MASEEH HAVE SURPASSED (THE OTHERS)”
Isaa here is a reference to Hadhrat Maulana Muhammad Isaa R.A. also

among the distinguished Khulafaa of Hakimul Ummat R.A. and, Maseeh
refers to Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb. This statement made by Hakimul
Ummat R.A. is in fact the stamp of authority on the abundance of spiritual
grace, spiritual effulgence and spiritual benefit to the Ummah, which
emanates from the person of this great Waarithul Ambiyaa (Representative
of the Prophets), Maseehul Ummat Hadhrat Maulana Maseehullah. This
observation of Hakeemul Ummat R.A. is ample testification to this fact
since every word of praise and reproach was meticulously weighed in the
court of Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat R.A. Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat R.A.
further testified to the spiritual training methods of Hadhrat Maseehullah by
saying:
‘There is order and arrangement in his temperament, hence order and

arrangement in his instruction.”
SPIRITUAL INTUITION AND INSPIRATION (WAARIDAATE

QALBIYYAH)
Hakimul Ummat R.A. advised Hadhrat Maseehullah:
“Act according to what enters into your heart repeatedly.”
This instruction of Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat R.A. adequately illustrates the

purity of heart and the high standard of spiritual intuition and inspiration of
Hadhrat Maseehullah. It is in fact a certificate of qualification of the deep
esoteric knowledge and connection with the spiritual realm of Hadhrat
Maseehullah. The attainment of such a lofty pedestal of spiritual elevation is
explained by Hakimul Ummat R.A. in his famous work, ‘At-takash-shuf’ in
which he says:
“When the darkness of the nafs and the impurities of character are
eliminated by means of constant Zikrullah and abundance of
spiritual exercise and abstinence and the heart and soul gain a
special and a distinguished relationship with Allah Ta’ala then
certain spiritual mysteries and esoteric knowledge enter the heart
intuitively and inspirationally without the agency of the senses or
10
other external material mediums.”
RU’YAA SAALIHAH OR TRUE DREAMS

In the Hadith it is stated that the Sahaabah asked Rasulullah (ρ):
“O Rasulullah! What are mubash-shiraat?”
Rasulullah (ρ) replied:

“True dreams. And, this is the tafseer of Allah Ta’ala’s statement: ‘And,
for them there are ‘bushraa’ (glad-tidings) in this worldly life.”
Hadhrat Maseehullah has been endowed with the capacity for receiving such
‘mubash-shiraat’ (true dreams) mentioned in the Hadith. To this, Hadhrat
Thanvi R.A. attested on several occasions.
SOME NOTEWORTHY ‘MUBASH-SHIRAAT’ OF HADHRAT

MASEEHULLAH
Hadhrat Maseehullah obtained permission to deliver Wa’z (lectures) from
Qutbul Aalam Hadhrat Gangohi R.A. via one such true dream. It was only
after obtaining this permission and instruction that Hadhrat Maseehullah
commenced the giving of lectures.
Hadhrat Khwaajah Mu’eenuddin Chisti R.A. specially directed Hadhrat

Maseehullah in a dream to the duty of Dua. Khwaajah Saheb in this
particular dream said:
“We transfer Dua to you. Whoever comes to you for Dua, make Dua on
their behalf.”
In this directive is the tidings of Hadhrat Maseehullah being “Mustajaabud

Da’waat’ (one whose Dua is readily accepted by Allah Ta’ala).
JALALABAD
Jalalabad is a fairly large town in the Uttar Pradesh province of India. In
1357 A.H., upon the express instruction of Hakimul Ummat Hadhrat
Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi R.A., Hadhrat Maseehullah came to
Jalalabad. Since that time he has settled there permanently. To this day
Hadhrat Maseehullah lives in Jalalabad from where he carries out his
11
Islamic activities and duties. Recalling his despatch to Jalalabad. Hadhrat
Maseehullah said:
“I happened to be present in the ‘khanqah’ when Hadratwaala

(Hakeemul Ummat) said: A teacher is required there. You proceed
to Jalalabad. ‘When I came here (to Jalalabad) there was one
Haafiz Saheb and two rooms. Haafiz Saheb taught in one room
and I in the other.”
The choice of Hadhrat Maseehullah as the spiritual custodian of Jalalabad

was the inspirational choice of Hakeemul Ummat R.A. Within thirty years
the two-roomed maktab developed into a full-fledged Islamic
Madressa with over six hundred students from all parts of India, South
Africa, Mauritius, Reunion, England, etc. Islamic education is imparted in
the various branches of Islamic Knowledge, right from the elementary stages
to the Aalim-Faadhil level.
The Madressa is operated purely on the basis of ‘Tawakkul’ (Trust in Allah

Ta’ala). No appeal for funds are sent out nor has the Madressa any source
of fixed income. It serves the Cause of Islam and Allah Ta’ala sees to its
operation and existence. Since its inception, the functioning of the Madressa
has been under the direct care and supervision of Hadhrat Maseehullah.
However, of recent, Hadhrat Maseehullah is increasingly according greater
time to the affairs of the ‘khanqah’.
Hadhrat Maseehul Ummat is truly one of those great saints and Ulama of
Islam – of which there are few living today – of which the world is rapidly
becoming empty. Once they depart, no replacements are found. Each
departure heralds the approach of the Final Hour – in the words of
Rasulullah (ρ) .
“Verily, Allah Ta’ala will not eliminate Knowledge by way of extracting it

(from the hearts) of servants. But, he will eliminate Knowledge by taking
away the Ulama. And, when there no longer remains an Aalim, people will
take for their leaders the ignorant. They (the ignorant ones) will be
questioned, and they will issue verdicts. Thus they will be astray and lead
(others) astray.”
THE HOLY CHISTIYYA, MASEEHIYYAH, ASHRAFIYYAH,

IMDAADIYYAH SPIRITUAL TREE
Hadhrat Maseehul Ummat Maulana Mohammed Maseehullah Khan belongs
12
to the auspicious chain of Auliyaa, which is linked to Rasulullah (ρ) Every

name in this holy ‘tree’ is a Star of immaculate piety and spiritual excellence
in the firmament of Ma’rifat and Tasawwuf. The Tasawwuf of the members
of this great Spiritual Order is deeply rooted in the Quraan and the Sunnah
of Rasulullah (ρ).
Hadhrat Mohammed Maseehullah Khan (died 1413 A.H.)

Khalifah of
Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi (died 1362 A.H.)

Hajee Imdaadullah Makki (died 1317 A.H.)
Hadhrat Noor Muhammad (died 1259 A.H.)
Hadjee Abdur Raheem (died 1246 A.H.)
Shah Abdul Baari (died 1226 A.H.)
Shah Abdul Haadi (died 1190 A.H.)
Shah Adhdud-din (died 1172 A.H.)
Shah Muhammad
Shah Muhib-Bullah (died 1058 A.H.)
Shah Bu Sa-eed (died 1040 A.H.)
Shah Nizaamuddin Balkhi (died 1005 A.H.)
Shah Jalaaluddin (died 989A.H.)
Shah Abdul Quddus (died 924 A.H.) or is it 944AH [MC]
Shaikh Muhammad (died 989A.H.)
Shaikh Ahmad Aarif (died 882 A.H.)
Shaikh Ahmad Abdul Haq (died 837A.H.)
Shah Jalaaluddin (died 765 A.H.)
Shaikh Shamsuddin (died 716 A.H.)
Shaikh Alaauddin (died 690 A.H.) or is it 590AH [MC]
Shaikh Fareeduddin Shakar Ganj (died 669 A.H.)
Khwaajah Qutbuddin Maqtool (died 633 A.H.) or is it Qutbud
Deen Bakhtiyar [MC]
Shah Mu-inuddin Habeeb (died 632 A.H.) or is it Mu-eenud
Deen Chishti 627 AH [MC]
Khwaajah Uthmaan (died 597A.H.)
Shah Shareef Zindani (died 584 A.H.)
Khwaajah Maudoon Chisti (died 577A.H.) or is it 527AH
[MC]
Shah Bu Yusuf (died 559A.H.) or is it 459 AH [MC]
Shah Abu Muhammad (died 411 A.H.)
Shah Ahmad Abdaal Chishti (died 355 A.H.)
Shaikh Abu Ishaaq Shaami (died 329A.H.)
Khwaajah Mumtaaz Alawi (died 299A.H.) or is it Khawaaja
13
Mumshad [MC]
Shah Abu Habeerah Basri (died 275 A.H.) or is it 279 AH
[MC]
Shah Huzaifah Mur-ashi (died 252 A.H.) or is it 152 AH [MC]
Shaikh Ibraahim Adham (died 266 A.H.) or is it 266 AH [MC]
Shah Fuzil Ibn Iyaaz (died 187A.H.)
Khwaajah Abdul Waahid Bin Zaid (died 176 A.H.)
Imaam Hasan Basri (died 110 A.H.)
AMMERUL MU’MINEEN SAYYIDINA HADHRAT ALI (radhiyallahu
anhu) (died 40 A.H.)
MUHAMMAD RASULULLAH (ρ) (died 10 A.H.) or is it 11AH
[MC]
INTRODUCTION (by the Author)

The greater part of the subject matter of this book has been extracted from
the various works of Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat Mujaddid-e-Millat, Jaamiush
Shariah Wat-Tareeqah, my Murshid, Hadhrat Thaanvi (rahmatullah alayh) .
Among his works from which I have extracted this material, are At-takash-
shuf, Bawaadirun Nawaadir, Aadaabush Shaikh Wal Mureed, Tableegh-e-
Deen, Shariat Wa Tareeqat, etc. Part of what appears in this book, I have
heard personally from Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat while sitting in his
company.
All this is in reality the faidh and barkat of Hadhrat Thaanvi (rahmatullah
alayh). This is aptly conveyed by the following statements of Hadhrat
Maulana Sayyid Sulaimaan Nadvi (Rahmatulah Alayh):
“By virtue of his (Hadhrat Thaanvi’s) ta’leem (teaching), tarbiyat (spiritual

training), writings, lectures and preaching, true aqaa-id (beliefs) were
disseminated; correct masaa-il (laws) were propagated; programmes for
Deeni Ta’leem were initiated; customs and innovations were eradicated; the
Sunnah of Nabi (ρ) was revived; the negligent were aroused; the sleeping
one’s awoke; those who had forgotten, remembered; those without
relationships were joined to Allah Ta’ala; hearts kindled with the love for
Rasulullah (ρ), and hearts lit up with the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala. That
branch of knowledge (Tasawwuf) which had become empty, once again
became adorned with the treasures of Hadhrat Shibli, Junaid, Bustaami,
Jilaani, Suharwardi and Sarhindi (rahmatullah Alayhim).”
This attribute and rank of reformation (tajdeed) in this century has been
14
bestowed by Allah Ta’ala specifically on the Mujaddid of the time, viz.,
Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thaanvi (rahmatullah Alayh). May Allah
Ta’ala perpetually shower His limitless treasures and mercies on his noble
Rooh, and may Allah Ta’ala always grant him His ranks of Proximity.
Ameen thumma aameen.
TASAWWUF THE NATURE OF TASAWWUF

The department of the Shariat relating to a’male batini (esoteric acts or
states of the heart) is called Tasawwuf and Suluk; and, the department of the
Shariat relating to a’male zahiri (exoteric acts or physical acts) is called
Fiqh. The subject matter dealt with by Tasawwuf is tahtheebe akhlaq or the
adornment of character while the motive of this branch of the Shariat is the
attainment of Divine Pleasure. The method of acquisition of this Divine
Pleasure is total obedience to the commands of the Shariat.
Tasawwuf in fact is the rooh (soul) and state of perfection of the Deen. Its
function is to purify the batin (the heart) of man from the lowly bestial
attributes of lust, calamities of the tongue, anger, malice, jealousy, love of
the world, love for fame, niggardliness, greed, ostentation, vanity, deception,
etc. At the same time it (Tasawwuf) aims at the adornment of the heart with
the lofty attributes of repentance, perseverance, gratefulness, fear of Allah,
hope, abstention, tauheed, trust, love sincerity, truth, meditation, reckoning,
contemplation, etc. In this way, attention towards Allah Ta’ala is inculcated
in man. This is in fact the purpose of life. Tasawwuf or Tareeqat is therefore
not at all negatory of the Deen and Shariat. On the contrary it is incumbent
for every Muslim to become a Sufi (one who follows the path of Tasawwuf).
Minus Tasawwuf, a Muslim cannot truly be described as a perfect Muslim.
THE NEED FOR TASAWWUF

Now that it is clear that Tasawwuf is not contrary to the Deen, but is in fact
a branch of the Shariat, its need is evident. Hadhrat Hakeemul Ummat
(rahmatullah alayh) states in the introduction of Haqeeqatut
Tareeqat :
“After rectification of beliefs and external acts it is fardh (compulsory) upon
every Muslim to rectify his esoteric acts. Numerous Qur’aanic aayat and
innumerable ahadith narrations explicitly indicate the fardhiat (compulsion)
of this. However, most people of superficial understanding are neglectful of
these because of their subservience to lowly desires. Who is not aware that
the Qur’aan and the Ahadith are explicit regarding the significance of zuhd,
15
qana’at, tawadhu’, ikhlas, sabr, shukr, hubbe ilahi, ridhabil qadha, tawakkul,
tasleem, etc., while at the same time they emphasise the acquisition of these
noble attributes? And, who is not aware that the Qur’aan and Ahadith
condemn the opposites of these noble qualities, viz., hubbe dunya, hirs,
takabbur, riya, shahwat, ghadab, hasad, etc., and has warned against them?
What doubt is there in the fact that the noble qualities have been commanded
and the bestial traits have been prohibited? This is the actual meaning of
reforming the esoteric acts. This is the primary purpose of Tareeqat. It being
fardh is undoubtedly an established fact.”
In Tareequl Qalandar, he says:

“All the authentic principles of Tasawwuf are to be found in the Qur’aan
and Ahadith. The notion that Tasawwuf is not in the Qur’aan is erroneous.
Errant sufis as well as the superficial Ulama (Ulama-e-Khushq) entertain
this notion. Both groups have misunderstood the Qur’aan and Ahadith. The
Ulama-e-Khushq claim that Tasawwuf is baseless since they believe that the
Qur’aan and Hadith are devoid of it while the errant and transgressing
(ghali) sufis assert that in the Qur’aan and Hadith are only the exoteric
(zahiri) laws. Tasawwuf they say, is the knowledge of the batin
(esotericism). According to them – Na uthu billah – there is no need for the
Qur’aan and the Hadith. In short, both groups consider the Qur’aan and
Hadith to be devoid of Tasawwuf. Thus in conformity with their opinion, one
group has shunned Tasawwuf and the other group has shunned the Qur’aan
and Hadith.”
TASAWWUF AND THE QUR’AAN

Both external (zahiri) and internal (batini) acts and duties are commanded in
the Qur’aan. Thus the Qur’aan while commanding Salaat and Zakaat:
“O People of Imaan! Establish Salaat and give Zakaat

“,
also commands shukr (gratefulness):
“And be grateful unto Allah”.

At one place is to be found:
“Fasting has been decreed upon you.”

and
“Upon mankind is the Hajj of the Bait for Allah.”,
while at another place is to be found:
16
“He (Allah) loves them (Mu’mineen) and they love
Him.”,
and:
“Those who have adopted Imaan are most ardent in

the love of Allah.”
Similarly, along with:
“When they stand for Salaat, they stand half-

heartedly”,
is to be found:
“They show people (i.e. they perform Salaat in riya).”
The Qur’aan, like it reprimands and condemns the defaulter of Salaat and
Zakaat, also states the evil of pride and vanity (takabbur and ujub).
The Same applies to the Ahadith. Like the chapters of Salaat, Saum, Ba’y
(trade and commerce), Nikah (marriage), Talaaq (divorce) are to be found,
so too do the chapters of riya takabbur, etc, exist. No Muslim can refute the
fact that like the a’male zahirah are Divine Commands so too are the a’male
batinah.”(Establish Salaat and pay Zakaat)”are positive commands just as
(Adopt sabr and shukr)”are positive commands. Like the aayat: “Fasting has
been decreed upon you”, establishes the Shar’i nature of Fasting, the aayat:
“Those who have Imaan are the most ardent in the love of Allah”, establishes
the Shar’i nature of Love for Allah. On closer examination and reflection it
will be realized that all the a’male zahirah are designed for the reformation
of the a’male batinah. The purification of the batin (the heart and soul of
man) is the aim and the basis of najat (salvation in the Akhirat) while the
despoiling of the batin is the cause of destruction.
Allah Ta’ala declares:
“Verily, he who has purified the nafs has attained

victory, and he who has despoiled it has lost.”
“That Day (of Qiyamat) neither wealth nor sons will

benefit (anyone), but that person who comes to Allah
with a reformed heart.”
The first aayat asserts victory as being the consequence of the purification of
17
the batin while the second aayat negates the utility of wealth and sons in the
absence of a reformed heart. wealth and sons in the absence of a reformed
heart. Imaan and Aqa-id (Articles of Faith) on which pivots the acceptance
of all a’mal (actions), are conditions of the heart (i.e. the batin). It is
manifest that a’mal are designed for the perfection of Imaan. It is therefore
clear that the original purpose is the reformation (islah) of the heart by virtue
of which man is ushered into the Divine Court of Acceptance and attains the
lofty spiritual ranks. This is precisely what is known technically as
Tasawwuf.
STATEMENTS OF THE SUFIYA

In this regard Bayazid Bistami (rahmatullah alayh) says:
“Do not be deceived if you see a performer of
supernatural fears flying in the air. Measure him
on the Standard of the Shariat – how he adheres
to the limits of the Commands of the Shariat.”
Hadhrat Junaid (rahmatullah alayh) says:

“All avenues besides the strict following of
Rasulullah (ρ) are closed to mankind.”
Hadhrat Nuri (rahmatullah alayh) says:

“Do not venture near to one who lays claim to a
condition which brings about transgression of the
limits of the Shariat.”
Hadhrat Khwajah Naseeruddin Chiraghe Dehlawi (rahmatullah alayh) says:

“Obedience to Rasulullah (ρ) is imperative. Such
obedience is essential in word, act and intention
because Love for Allah Ta’ala is not possible
without obedience to Hadhrat Muhammad
Mustafa (ρ).”
Khwajah Mueenuddin Chishti (rahmatullah alayh) says:

“He who adheres to the Shariat, executing its
commands and refrains from transgression,
progresses in spiritual rank, i.e. all progress is
dependant on adherence to the Shariat.”
18
Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat (rahmatullah alayh) says in Ta’limuddin:

“Whoever acquires the wealth of Wusul
(Attainment, having attained the Love of Allah)
has acquired it by virtue of following the Sunnat.”
THE TECHNICAL TERMS OF SHARTAT AND TAREEQAT

The fountain of all Islamic teaching is the Qur’aan and the Sunnat. The
inception of this teaching was in the Majlis (gathering) of Nabi (ρ). It was
the initial stage of Islam which was present in its headquarters. It had a
confined number of adherents, hence all branches of Islamic instruction –
Tafseer, Hadith, Fiqh and Tasawwuf – were imparted at one venue, the
Madressah of Nabi (ρ). Separate departments did not exist. However, in this
Madrasah of Nabi (ρ) there was a permanent group of lovers of Allah and
devotees of Rasulullah (ρ) who were at all times engaged in the purification
of the nafs, and the reformation of the batin by means of practical education.
This group is called Ashab-e-Suffah. Later when Islam acquired an universal
status, the Ulama of the Deen formulated the teachings of Islam into
separate departments. Those who rendered service to the Knowledge of
Hadith are called the Muhadditheen; those who undertook the responsibility
of Tafseer are called the Mufassireen; those who specialized in Fiqh are
called the Fuqaha while those who took custody of the department of Islah
Batin (purification of the nafs) became known as the Masha-ikh Sufiya.
Hence, not a single one among the great authorities of former times ever
divorced the Shariat from Tareeqat. On the contrary they also held Tareeqat
in subservience to the Shariat.
SHARIAT, TAREEQAT, HAQEEQAT AND MA’RIFAT

The whole combination of the teachings imposed by Islam is known as the
Shariat. Both sets of acts, viz., A’male Zahiri and A’male Batini, are
included. In the terminology of the Mutaqaddimeen (the early authorities of
the Shariat) the term Fiqh was synonymous with the word Shariat. Thus
Imam A’zam Abu Hanifah (rahmatullah alayh) defined Fiqh as follows:
“The recognition of that which is beneficial and

harmful to the nafs.”
Later, in the terminology of the Muta-akh-khireen (the later authorities of the

Shariat) the word Fiqh was used for that branch of Islam which related to
19
A’male Zahiri while the branch which dealt with A’male Batini became
known as Tasawwuf. The ways or methods of acquiring the A’male Batini
are called Tareeqat.
The reformation of the A’male Batin brings about spiritual lustre and glitter
of the heart to which is revealed, in consequence, certain realities (haqa-iq-e-
kauniyah) pertaining to tangible and intangible occurrences especially virtue
and vice; as well as certain realities (Haqa-iq-e-Ilahiyyah) pertaining to
Divine Attributes and Acts especially related to affairs between Allah and
servants. These revelations (makshufat) are known as Haqeeqat. The process
of these revelations (i.e. inkishaf) is called Ma’rifat while the Saint of
Inkishaf is known as a Muhaqqiq and Arif.
All the aforementioned relates to the Shariat. The notion that the Shariat and
Tareeqat are entities apart – this notion has gained prominence in the public
– is totally false and baseless. Now that the nature and reality of Tasawwuf
and Sulook have become clear, it will be understood that:
Kashf (inspiration and revelation) and karamat (miracles) are not necessary.
It does not promise success in the worldly affairs.
It does not assert that one’s work will be achieved by means of ta’weez and
potions; nor does it claim that one will be successful in court cases by means
of duaa.
It does not promise increase in one’s earnings nor does it promise one cure
from physical ailments.
It does not foretell future events.
It does not contend that the disciple’s (mureed) reformation will be achieved
by the spiritual focussing of the Shaikh. Extra-normal operation is not
necessary to Tasawwuf.
It does not contend that the one who trods this Path will not be afflicted by
even the thought of sin nor does it claim that the mureed will automatically
(without effort) engage in Ibadat.
It does not promise total self-annihilation so that one is not aware even of
one’s presence.
It does not promise the experiencing of states of ecstasy and spiritual
effulgence in Thikr and Shaghl (spiritual exercise) nor does it claim that one
will see beautiful dreams and wonderful visions.
All these are not the aims of Tasawwuf. The purpose is the Pleasure of Allah
Ta’ala. This then, should be kept in sight.
20
BAY’T
Bay’t is a mutual pledge relating to the striving, arranging, executing and
adhering to the laws of A’male Zahiri and A’male Batini. This pledge is
called Bay’t-e-Tareeqat which has been in vogue by authoritative
transmission from generation to generation from the earliest time of Islam.
Rasulullah (ρ) had enacted bay’t of the Sahaabah not only on Jihad, but on
Islam and the adherence of the Ahkam (Laws in general) as well on practical
deeds (A’mal). This is established by numerous Ahadith. The following
hadith is one such Hadith:
“Auf Ibn Maalik Ash-ja-ee (radhiyallahu anhu)

said: We were with Nabi (ρ), seven, eight or nine
(of us), when he said:
‘Will you not make bay’t (pledge) to the Rasul of

Allah ?’
We stretched our hands and enquired: On what

shall we make bay’t to you, O Rasul of Allah? He
said:
‘That you make the Ibaadat of Allah; that you

associate nothing with Him; that you perform the
five Salaat; that you hear and obey.”
(Muslim, Abu Dawood, Nisai)
On this occasion the bay’t which Rasulullah (ρ) took from the Sahaabah
was neither Bay’t Imaani (Pledge of Imaan) nor Bay’t Jihaadi (Pledge to
wage Jihad). This Hadith is categoric proof for the validity of the system of
bay’t in vogue by the Masha-ikh of Tasawwuf. Like there are four Math-
habs (Schools of Thought) in Fiqh, viz. Hanafi, Shafi, Maaliki and Hambali,
so too are there four schools of thought in Tasawwuf, viz., Chishtiyya,
Qaderiyyah, Naqshabandiyyah and Suharwardiyyah. Like the Hanafi Way is
dominant in this area (India and Pakistan), the Chistiyyah Way too is
dominant here. Our akabir (authorities in Tasawwuf) enter into (bay’t) in all
the four Schools of Thought (Silsilah) so that respect for the four Silsilah is
maintained although Chishtiyyat is dominant .
21
The founder of the Chishtiyyah Silsilah is Hadhrat Khwajah Mueenuddin
Chishti Ajmeri (rahmatullah alayh); founder of the Qaderiyyah Order is
Hadhrat Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (rahmatullah alayh); founder of the
Naqshabandiyyah Order is Hadhrat Shaikh Bahauddin Naqshabuddin
(rahmatullah alayh); and the founder of the Suharwardiyyah Silsilah is
Hadhrat Shaikh Shahabuddin Suharwardiyyah (rahmatullah alayh).
THE MODE OF BAY’T

The bay’t is enacted by the Shaikh taking into his right hand the right hand
of the mureed (disciple). If the group contracting the bay’t is large, the
Shaikh uses a length of cloth onto which each member of the group holds
with his right hand. Ladies who contract the bay’t do so from behind a
screen. A mahram of the lady should also be present at the bay’t ceremony.
Hadhrat Aishah (radhiyallahu anha) said:
“Rasulullah (ρ) never touched the palm of a

woman, but he would make the (pledge-bay’t)
upon her. Upon having made the bay’t he would
say. ‘Go! Verify, I have already made bay’t with
you.’ ”
(Bukhari, Muslim, Abu-Dawood)
It is for this reason that in entering ladies into the bay’t, the Masha-ikh do so
verbally or by means of a cloth which is spread from the Shaikh to the lady
behind the screen. This is the method of bay’t when in the presence of the
Shaikh. Those who are not able to present themselves personally to the
Shaikh could contract the bay’t by means of a letter or through the agency of
a responsible and trustworthy person. This form of bay’t is called bay’t-e-
Uthmani. Rasulullah (ρ) on the occasion of bay’t-e-Ridhwan made the bay’t
of Hadhrat Uthmaan in his (Uthmaan’s) absence. On this occasion,
Rasulullah (ρ) placed his right hand on his left hand and announced that he
has made bay’t of Uthmaan. (The bay’t in absence of the mureed is therefore
termed bay’t-e-Uthmaani,)
TA’LEEM (INSTRUCTION) AT THE TIME OF BAY’T

Certain instructions are given to the mureed at the time of bay’t.
1. Firstly, is the qadha (fulfilment) of Salaat and Fasts which were

omitted. The qadha should be executed by performing along with each daily
22
Salaat a Qadha Salaat of the same time, e.g. along with the Ada Maghrib
Salaat, a Qadha Maghrib Salaat should be made. During Isha, the Witr
omitted should also be made. In making the qadha only the Fardh and Witr
are made. It is however preferable to perform a number of qadha Salaat
collectively at one time or in a single day, e.g. the Qadha Salaat of several
times or of several days. In this way quicker discharge of the obligation
takes place.
2. Discharging any monetary obligations of others if one is liable for

such obligations. Such discharge is either by making the due payment or by
obtaining the pardon of the one whose right is involved.
3. Fully guarding the eyes, ears and the tongue; total abstention from
haraam and mushtabah (doubtful) wealth; appearance, dress to be in
conformity with the Sunnat; total abstention from innovation and un-Islamic
customs and practices on occasions of happiness and sorrow; to refrain from
unlawful methods in all affairs; to constantly bear in mind not to harm
anyone by means of one’s hand or tongue; not to hurt anyone; refraining
from association; meeting according to need; and abstaining from
unnecessary conversation.
4. Constantly maintaining the thikr of Kalimah Tayyibah, i.e. while

walking, sitting, reclining and laying down. The way to do this is to
continuously engage in reciting:
áÂ Çöáóåó ÇöáÇøó Ç ááå
After reciting it a few times,
ãõÍóãøóÏñ ÑøóÓõæúáõ Ç ááåö Õóáøóì Ç ááåõ ÊóÚóÇ áì Úóáóíúåö

æóÓóáøóãú
should be added.
5. After every Salaat recite Ayatul Kursi followed by Tasbeeh Fatimi. i.e.
33 times ÓõÈúÍóÇäó Çááå ; 33 times ÇóáúÍóãúÏõ Çááå ; and thirty four
times Çóááå ÇóßúÈóÑõ. If time affords then recite after Zuhr, Maghrib
and Isha one Tasbeeh (100 times) the third Kalimah.
6. After Isha Salaat, at the time of going to bed engage in muhasabah

(self-reckoning) and muraqabah-e-maut (contemplating death).
23
MUHASABAH
Muhasabah means to take stock or reckoning. Here it means to take stock of
one’s own deeds and activities. One should reflect over the entire day’s acts
and deeds. Upon recalling a noble act or an act of Ibaadat, express one’s
gratefulness (shukr) unto Allah Ta’ala and request for greater taufeeq
(ability and inclination) to enhance virtue. Upon recalling one’s evil or
wrong doing, become regretful. This is the daily muhasabah incumbent upon
the mureed.
MURAQABA-E-MAUT
This means to contemplate…to think about the oncoming event of maut
(death). Reflect about the pangs of death, the questioning in the grave, the
Plain of Resurrection, the Reckoning in Qiyamat; the presence in the Court
of Allah; crossing the Sirat, etc. All this has to be contemplated and a pledge
is to be made that one will in future not venture near to sin. One tasbeeh
(100 times) Istighfaar is then to be recited. The Istighfaar is:
ÓõÈúÍóÇäó Çááåö æóÈöÍóãúÏöåö ÓõÈúÍöÇäó Çááåö ÇáúÚóÙöíúãö |

ÇóÓúÊóÛúÝöÑõ Çááåó ÇáúÚóÙöíúãó áÂÇöáóåó ÇöáÇøó åõæó ÇáúÍóìøõ
ÇáúÞóíøõæúãõ æóÇóÊõæúÈõ Çöáóíúåö
7. Consider yourself to be the most inferior, so much so, that if you

observe with your own eyes another indulging in the worst of vices then too
you shall not despise him/her, nor shall you consider yourself nobler than
him/her. On the contrary one should fear and bear in mind that it is very
possible that the perpetrator of the vice may resort to sincere taubah and
become a person of high piety while the one who had despised the sinner
become ensnared (Allah forbid!) in the meshes of the nafs and shaitaan and
be diverted from Ibaadat and obedience. One has no certainty regarding
one’s end. One, therefore, has no basis for regarding another with contempt.
N.B. This instruction, No. 7, is the first step in Suluk. Without taking this
step, the Path of Tasawwuf remains closed.
THE NATURE OF BAY’T

The meaning of bay’t ( ÈíÚ : to sell) is inherent in bay’t (ÈíÚÊ). Bay’t thus
implies that the mureed “sells” himself to the Shaikh. In other words he has
24
sold himself to the Shaikh in preparation of ahkam-e-zahirah and ahkam-e-
batinah (i.e. to learn to give practical expression to the Law of Allah Ta’ala).
The nature of this “sale” envisages that the searcher after the truth (talib)
should repose implicit trust and faith in his Shaikh. He should understand
and accept that the advices and prescriptions, admonitions and prohibitions
of the Shaikh are all designed and motivated for his (the mureed’s) spiritual
well-being. The talib shall not interfere with or impede the diagnosis and
prescriptions of the Shaikh. He should have implicit faith to such an extent
that he should believe that in all the world there is none in his knowledge
who can benefit him more than his Shaikh. In the terminology of Tasawwuf
this conception of implicit faith in the Shaikh is known as wahdat-e-matlab
(unity of purpose). Minus this conception, the ceremony of bay’t is
meaningless and of no benefit because congeniality (munasabat) with the
Shaikh is an essential condition for islaah (reformation) of the nafs.
The sign of the existence of congeniality (munasabat) between the Mureed

and his Shaikh is that the heart of the mureed does not object to the respect,
statements and acts of the Shaikh. Should any objection arise in the heart
regarding the Shaikh, the mureed should grieve and feel depressed.
The external form of bay’t is beneficial to the general public since it induces
reverence and respect in them for the Shaikh. As a result, they readily accept
the Shaikh’s statements and are constrained to act accordingly. However, for
the elite (khawas), i.e. the Ulama, bay’t proves beneficial after a period has
been spent in association with the Shaikh. By virtue of bay’t a bond of
sincerity (khulus) is generated between the mureed and the Shaikh. The
Shaikh considers the mureed to belong to him and the mureed considers the
Shaikh to belong to him. There does not remain any suspense between them.
THE NEED FOR A SHAIKH

It has always been in the Divine Scheme of things that perfection cannot be
attained without an ustad (expert instructor). Thus when one is endowed
with the guidance to enter into the Road of Tareeqat, one should search for
an Ustad of Tareeqat so that one may reach the true goal through the
medium of his graceful instruction and auspicious companionship.
“O my heart! if you desire to undertake this

sojourn hold on to the garment of the guide.
Whoever trod the Path of Love without
Companion his life passed by without attaining
25
love.”
Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat Rahmatullah therefore says:
“What! Has anyone attained perfection by only

books? it is simple to understand that one cannot
become a carpenter without sitting in the
company of a carpenter; one cannot become a
tailor without the companionship of a tailor; one
cannot become a calligraphist without the
company of a calligrapher. In short, one cannot
attain perfection or become an expert without
the companionship of an expert.”
The companionship of a pious man will induce piety in you. Similarly, the
companionship of an evil man will induce evil in you. He who searches for
association with Allah Ta’ala, has to acquire the association of the Auliya-e-
Kiram. A short while spent in the companionship of Auliyaa is nobler and
superior to a century of unostentatious obedience. Companionship with the
pious for even a moment is superior to a century of zuhd (abstention) and
ta’at (obedience).
A LETTER AND ITS REPLY

The following letter and reply given by Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat
(rahmatullah alayh) demonstrates the need for a Shaikh.
The letter:
“I am presently in Daurah-e-Hadith (the final year in the Alim Fadhil
course). For quite a while I had intended to write, but a certain aspect
prevented me from doing so. I am a voracious reader and lover of your
writings and have been engaged in reading your books since my childhood
days. By the grace of Allah I have benefited much.
I have learnt one particular thing from your writings, viz. the commands of
the Shariat are all voluntary (ikhtiyariyyah). Since the commands are
ikhtiyariyyah (volitional) it follows that the commands to abstain are
likewise volitional. Thus the remedy for ail spiritual ailments is to refrain
(volitionally). I have always adopted this method for myself. The question
now is this: Now that this principle has been learnt from the Masha-ikh of
Tareeqat does the need still remain to refer to the Masha-ikh and obtain
26
remedies from them? I do not understand this.
I have ruminated for quite a while regarding this matter. I trust that you will
advise me so that I may practice accordingly. After realizing this general
principle, what is the need for obtaining the diagnosis and
prescription of a Shaikh? I hope that if I have erred, I will be informed.”
The reply:
“The commands and the prohibitions are all volitional. However, errors do
happen in this regard. At times what has already been acquired (hasil) is
considered as not having been attained yet (ghair-hasil), and sometimes vice
versa. For example, a person intend to attain khushu’ (concentration based
on humility) in Salaat, and in reality he then attains khushu’. But, while
having attained khushu’ he is simultaneously afflicted by an abundance of
stray thoughts (wasawis). This person then regards the accident of such
wasawis as contradictory and negatory of khushu’. He thus considers that he
has not attained khushu’. In the initial stages of Ibadat, wasawis are non-
volitional (ghair-ikhtiyari) – coming of their own accord – however, later the
musallee is diverted towards volitional (ikhtiyari) wasawis and he is
deceived into believing that such wasawis are yet of the non volitional kind
of the initial stages. He thus considers himself to have khushu’ while in
actual fact khushu has been eliminated .
At times he considers what is not firm (ghair rasikh) to be firm (rasikh). For
example, in a few light mishaps he considers himself to have attained the
state of radha bil qadha (satisfied with what has been divinely decreed). His
contentment in the face of some slight misfortunes leads him to believe that
he has attained advanced capability in firmness and steadfastness. But, if
some great calamity overtakes him and he fails to be contented then too he
labours under the deception that he has attained the desired degree and goal
of rusukh (firmness).
The consequence of regarding the attained (hasil) as unattained (ghair hasil)

is frustration and depression which in turn induce one to become careless
and neglectful. Thus, the attained becomes truly eliminated. The harm of the
opposite condition (i.e. considering the unattained as attained – ghair-hasil
as hasil) is deprivation. Since one labours under the false notion that one has
already achieved the goal, one does not make any effort in this direction.
The same danger lurks in considering ghair-rasikh (infirmity) as rasikh

(firm), viz., one remains careless, not making any effort or arrangement to
attain the desired goal of firmness and steadfastness. Sometimes one
27
commits the error of believing that the state of rusukh has not been attained
despite it having been attained. For example, one combated unlawful lust
during a time when the effect of ones thikr was dominant. As a result, the
condition of unlawful lust remained suppressed so much so that one’s
attention was totally diverted from it. Later when the effect of the thikr
decreases and the natural propensities assert themselves even if in slight
degree one is misled to believe that one’s mujahadah (striving against the
nafs) ha; gone wasted, hence the return of the evil propensities. The
consequence of this feeling is that one loses hope and is overtaken by
stagnation and retrogression.
The above are merely some examples of errors and the resultant harm. A
qualified Shaikh (of Tareeqat) by virtue of his insight and experience
discerns the reality and if one is connected to such a Shaikh, he informs one
of the errors and pitfalls. The mureed is thus saved from these dangers.
Assuming that the Saalik (one who trods the Path of Tasawwuf) because of
intelligence and correct understanding discerns the pitfalls, then too, he will
not attain tranquillity and peace of mind because of inexperience. He will
remain perplexed. And, perplexity impedes the attainment of the goal.
This is the duty of the Shaikh’s office. More than this is not his
responsibility. Nevertheless, in kindness he performs another function as
well. In realizing the goal or the initial stage of the goal or in eliminating an
evil attribute, the searcher of the truth undergoes great stress and difficulty
although repeated subjection to such difficulty finally becomes transformed
into ease. But, the Shaikh sometimes as a favour devises such a scheme that
the difficulty disappears from the very inception.
This is a brief exposition for understanding. The need for a Shaikh is felt
and understood once one commences in the Path and systematically informs
the Shaikh of one’s particular conditions and at the same time following his
advice and instructions. Furthermore, such total obedience is possible only if
one has full trust and confidence in the Shaikh, fully submitting to him. At
that time one will actually feel and realize that it is not possible to attain the
goal normally without a Shaikh.”
THE SIGN OF SHAIKH-E-KAMIL (QUALIFIED SHAIKH)

A Shaikh is one who has full knowledge and experience of spiritual ailments
(amradh-e-batinah), attributes of vice and virtue (akhlaq-e-razeelah and
akhlaq-e-hameedah), their characteristics (khawas) and their effects
(ta’theerat). He should further be able to distinguish between their
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similarities and he must have perfect ability in devising plans and
prescriptions for the acquisition of the attributes of virtue and the
elimination of the attributes of vice. He has to be aware of the progress and
retrogress of these attributes. He must be well versed in the hazards of the
nafs and shaitaan, the intuitive senses and feelings pertaining to the angels
and the Divine Being. He must be able to distinguish these various intuitive
and extra-sensory feelings and perceptions. It is therefore imperative that the
Shaikh of tareeqat be one who is qualified in this knowledge, be a mujtahid
in this field and possesses natural ability and inherent propensity. if he has
acquired the Tareeq by a mere self-study of books on Tasawwuf or by
listening from others, he will destroy the mureed whom he is attending,
because he will not be in position to correctly diagnose the various states of
the mureed.
Shaikh Ibn Arabi (rahmatullah alayh) briefly summarises the signs of a

Shaikh-e-Kamil (the perfect and qualified Shaikh) to be three:
1. Deen resembling the Deen of the Ambiya.

2. Prescribing like the physicians.
3. Management and control like that of kings.
The exposition of the above summary is as follows:

1. He should possess the necessary knowledge of the Deen which he
must have acquired by either academic pursuit of such knowledge or from
companionship with the Ulama-e-Muhaqqiqeen .
2. He must be a deputy (Khalifah) of a Shaikh-e-Kamil attached to an
authentic Silsilah.
3. He should be uprighteous and pious.
4. He derived spiritual benefit by remaining for an adequate period of
time in the company of the Shaikh. Such “companionship” is either by
means of correspondence or by physical presence in the association of the
Shaikh.
5. The people of knowledge (i.e. the Ulama) hold him in high esteem,
and refer to him.
6. The effect of his companionship (suhbat) is increase in the desire for
Akhirat and Divine love as well as detestation for the love of the world.
7. The majority of his mureeds are followers of the Shariat, their
conditions conforming with the demands of the Shariat.
8. He is devoid of greed and desire (for worldly gain and benefit).
9. He engages in Thikr and devotional practices.
10. He does not leave his mureeds unfettered, but reprimaands them
when the need arises. He treats everyone according to their respective
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abilities.
The one in whom these attributes exist is worthy of being a Shaikh and he
should be considered a wonderful alchemy. His companionship and service
to him are in fact priceless treasures. Once these attributes or perfection are
found in a Shaikh. one should not be concerned about karamat (miracles)
and kushf (inspiration). It is not necessary that these states exist in the
Shaikh-e-Kamil nor is it necessary that he be one who does nor himself earn
his livelihood.
MUNASABAT (CONGENIALITY) WITH THE SHAIKH

Experience has proven that for gaining spiritual benefit (fuyudh-e-batini),
mutual munasabat (congeniality) between the Shaikh and Mureed is a
natural condition. Normally benefit is dependant on affection which is the
reality! of natural congeniality (munasabat-e-fitri). Sometimes a Shaikh will
refer a mureed to another Shaikh because of the lack of such munasabat
between them. In doing so the Shaikh establishes either by deduction or
kashf (inspiration from Allah Ta’ala) that the mureed has munasabat with a
certain Shaikh. In this Path it is essential that munasabat exists between the
Shaikh and Mureed otherwise the latter will not benefit. Such munasabat is
the basis for the acquisition of benefit and passing on faidh (spiritual grace)
to the mureed. Munasabat envisages that there exists between the Shaikh
and Mureed compatibility and harmony to such a degree that the mureed
discerns no rejection in his heart for any word or act of the Shaikh although
he (the mureed) may be afflicted by mental disagreement with any word or
act of the Shaikh. Nevertheless such mental disagreement will not
countenance any rejection for the Shaikh in the heart of the mureed. In short,
harmony and compatibility are conditional for bay’t. It is therefore essential
to first inculcate munasabat. This need is imperative. In the absence of this
essential condition, mujahadat (strivings), riyadhat (certain forms of
exercises designed to subdue the nafs), muraqabat (meditations) and
mukashafat (intuitive revelations) are all futile. In the absence of natural
munasabat (tab’i munasabat), the mureed should endeavour to inculcate
intellectual (aqli) munasabat, because benefit is dependant on it. For this
reason, one should refrain from entering into the bay’t contract until total
munasabat has been inculcated.
THE BENEFITS OF THE COMPANIONSHIP OF A SHAIKH-E-

KAMIL
The benefits of association with a Shaikh-e-Kamil are manifold. Among
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such benefits are:
1.The noble and lofty qualities of the Shaikh slowly develop in the mureed.
2.Even if one is not totally reformed, one will have gained the ability to
discern and recognize one’s faults.
3.The mureed follows the Shaikh in character and habit.
4.Attainment of joy and pleasure in Thikr and ibaadat.
5.Enhancement of courage.
6.The obtainal of clarification and contentment from the Shaikh in the
event of a spiritual condition settling over the mureed.
7.The mureed will discern his own spiritual condition which becomes
manifest in the talks of the Shaikh, such talks being the essence of the
masa-il (rules).
8.Increase in the desire to practice virtue.
9.The mureed’s ability becomes manifest to him.
10.Love for Allah Ta’ala increases.
11.Quick attainment of cure for spiritual ailments.
12.Obtaining the dua of the Shaikh.
13.Elimination of doubt and uncertainty as a result of the Nur emanating
from the heart of the Shaikh. This Nur has its effect on the mureed.
Spiritual darkness is dispelled by this Nur. The reality of all things thus
becomes manifest. There are degrees regarding the efficacy of this Nur
depending on the degree of fertility of the disposition of the mureed. One
of high and noble disposition can attain the full beneficial effect of this
Nur by merely looking at such Shaikhs of perfection. In such cases the
mureed attains spiritual progress and ranks without even physical
association with the Shaikh.
HUQOOQ (RIGHTS) OF THE SHAIKH

1. The mureed should believe that he will attain his goal through the
agency of his Shaikh. If the mureed turns his attention elsewhere (i.e.
towards another Shaikh while he remains the mureed of one Shaikh) he will
be deprived of the spiritual grace and benefit of his Shaikh.
2. The mureed should in all ways be obedient to his Shaikh and render
sincere and total service to him. In the absence of the love of the Shaikh
there is no real benefit. The sign of love for the Shaikh is immediate
fulfilment of his orders. Never follow- an) act without his permission
because sometimes the Shaikh resorts to an act which is appropriate for him
in view of his rank and spiritual state, but the same act may be a fatal poison
for the mureed.
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3. Recite the thikr and the wazifas which the Shaikh instructs and
refrain from all other forms of wazifas.
4. In the presence of the Murshid, the mureed should direct all his
attention towards him. This attention has to be to such a degree that the
mureed should not perform even Salaat (in his presence) without his
permission.
5. Do not speak with anyone in his presence, in fact, do not pay
attention to anyone.
6. Do not stretch the legs in the direction where the Murshid is seated,
even if he is not directly in front.
7. Never lodge any objection against the Murshid. If the mureed is
unable to understand any act of the Murshid, he should not entertain any
misgiving, but should recall the episode of Hadhrat Musa (alayhis salaam)
and Hadhrat Khidr (alayhis salaam) and consider that some wisdom must be
underlying the act.
8. Never desire the Murshid to display karamat (miracles).
9. If in any doubt, immediately discuss it with the Murshid. Should the
doubt after having discussed it still remain, consider it to be the result of
your defective understanding. If the Murshid does not respond when the
mureed puts forward his doubt, he (mureed) should consider that he is yet
not capable of comprehending the explanation, hence the Murshid’s silence.
He should await another opportunity for clarification.
10. Inform the Murshid of dreams as well as any interpretation of such
dreams which come to your mind.
11. The mureed should not without need and without permission remain
aloof from the Murshid.
12. The mureed should not raise his voice above that of the Murshid nor
should he speak in loud tones to the Murshid.
13. When necessary, the mureed should speak to the Murshid clearly
and be brief and wait with much attention for the reply.
14. Narrate to others only that extent of the Murshid’s talks which is
understandable to them. Do not narrate to others such words of the Murshid
which they will not be able to comprehend.
15. The mureed should not refute the words of the Murshid even if it
seems that the mureed is correct. The mureed should hold the belief that the
error of the Shaikh (Murshid) is superior to his (mureed’s) rectitude.
16. The mureed should inform the Murshid constantly of his condition,
whether good or bad. The Murshid is the Spiritual Practitioner and
prescribes remedies after being informed of the mureed’s condition. The
mureed should not maintain silence about his condition depending upon the
kashf (spiritual inspiration) of the Murshid for realization of the mureed’s
condition. The mureed has to systematically notify the Murshid of his
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condition.
17. The mureed should not engage in any wazeefah (thikr or form of
recitation) while sitting in the company of the Murshid. Such recitation
should be in the absence of the Murshid.
18. Whatever batini faiz (spiritual blessing) accrues, the mureed should
consider it to be the consequence of the agency of the Murshid even if in a
dream or state of muraqabhah (meditation) it appears that such blessing is
from a different direction (other than the Shaikh). If in a spiritual state it
appears that such batini faiz accrued to the mureed via the agency of another
Saint, the mureed should consider that it is some manifestation of his
Murshid which has assumed the form of another Saint.
MUJAAHADAH
“Those who strive in Our Path, We will most assuredly

guide them towards Our Paths.”
Qur’aan
“Fudhaalah Kaamil narrates that Rasulullah (ρ) said. ‘The mujaahid is

he who makes jihaad (strives) in the obedience of Allah.”
Baihaqi
The Nature of Mujaahadah

The reality of Mujaahadah consists of the habitual practice of opposing the
nafs (man’s lowly desire). In other words, to check and control the physical,
monetary, egotistical and mundane desires, delights and preferences of the
nafs in the pursuit of the Pleasure and Obedience of Allah Ta’ala.
Two types of benefits accrue to the nafs.
1. Huqooq. Huqooq (rights or obligations) are such benefits necessary

for the endurance and existence of the physical body and life.
2. Huzooz. Huzooz (pleasures, delights, luxuries) are benefits in

excess to the huqooq.
Mujaahadah and riyaazat (abstinence-forms of austere exercises designed to

establish the control of the mind over matter) are directed towards the
huzooz. In mujaahadah, reduction or total abstention from the huzooz,
(pleasures) are advocated. (Pleasures here refer to lawful pleasures and not
33
to such pleasures which are forbidden in the Shariat). In the employment of
mujaahadah, the huqooq (rights and obligations) are not destroyed, for such
destruction is contrary to the Sunnat. The Hadith Shareef states:
“Verily, your nafs has a haqq (right) over you...”
Destruction of the huqooq brings about physical weakness and the health
deteriorates. When this happens, one finds it difficult to execute even the
necessary duties and Ibaadaat.
The Need for Mujaahadah

A’maal-e-Saalihah (righteous deeds) are always accompanied by labour, toil
and difficulty because such a’maal are in conflict with the desires of the
nafs. There will always be some form of opposition sometimes great,
sometimes slight by the nafs against a’maal. Striving against the nafs is
therefore a life-long process.
Both the mubtadi and the muntahi are at times faced with lethargy because
of conflict in the a’maal. (Mubradi is a beginner in the Path of Tasawwuf).
Muntahi one who has attained his goal in Tasawwuf. Both are in need to
ward off their lethargy by means of mujaahadah. However, the mubtadi
stands in greater need of mujaahadah in the initial stages, he at times
becomes over-confident. But, frequently natural traits and habits return and
the consequence is an urge for sinning. The nafs of the muntahi therefore
also becomes lethargic at times in obedience. He, therefore, stands in need of
mujahadah at such a time.
There is, however, a great difference between the mujaahadah of the mubtadi
and the muntahi. The mubtadi is like one who is seated on the back of a
horse just trained. The rider of the newly trained horse has to be much more
alert and exercise greater control over the horse as such a horse tends to be
more mischievous and is apt to go out of control. The muntahi is like a rider
seated on the back of a well trained horse. He exercises no great endeavour
to maintain the horse under control. Nevertheless, he too has to be alert
because even a trained horse sometimes reverts to mischievousness because
of its natural animal traits. But, the slightest warning from the rider is
sufficient to check the horse. If, however, the rider is totally negligent then
even the trained horse will sometimes suddenly drop him from its back.
Thus, mujaahadah for the control of the nafs is necessary for the muntahi
also.
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Moderation in Mujaahadah
The purpose of mujaahadah is not to depress and frustrate the nafs, but is to
habituate the nafs to difficulty and to eliminate the habit of comfort and
luxury. For this purpose that amount of mujaahadah is sufficient which
brings some difficulty on the nafs. It is of no benefit to impose excessive
strain on the nafs and frustrating it. Excessive strain will render the nafs
useless. Understand this well. Effort and trial are not always and in all
conditions meritorious. It is desirable if in moderation resulting in beneficial
progress. Excess in mujaahadah is contemptible, hence observance of
moderation is incumbent. Shaikh Sa’di (rahmatullah alayh) echoes this in the
couplet:
Eat not so much that it spills from the mouth

Eat not so less that the body is overcome with weakness.
Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur’aan Shareef:
“(The servants of Allah are) those who when they

spend, do nor waste nor are they miserly. But,
between these (extremes of waste and miserliness)
they are moderate.”
Moderation has therefore to be observed in mujaahadah. But, this

moderation should not be prescribed by one’s own opinion and desire. The
degree of moderation and the method of mujaahadah should be acquired
from a Muhaqqiq (a Shaikh qualified in Tasawwuf and who has been
authorised by some spiritual master to spiritually train others).
The Types of Mujaahadah

There are two kinds of mujaahadah.
1.Physical Mujaahadah. This is the imposition of practices upon the nafs
in order to accustom it to difficulties, e.g. accustoming the nafs to
Salaat by imposing upon it Nafl Salaat in abundance; reducing the
greed of the nafs by means of abundance of Nafl Fasting.
2.Opposition. In this type of mujaahadah the nafs is opposed in its desires.
When the nafs urges to commit sin then opposition is offered. The main type
of mujaahadah is this second kind. This second kind of mujaahadah is
Waajib (compulsory). The first type of mujaahadah is employed in order to
acquire the second kind. When the nafs becomes accustomed to difficulties
then it will develop the habit of controlling its desires.
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Those who possess the ability to control their desires without resorting to
physical mujaahadah (the first kind) are not in need of this type of
mujaahadah. However, because such people are extremely few, the Sufiyah
have stringently adopted physical mujaahadah as well. According to the
Sufiyah physical mujaahadah consists of four fundamentals (arkaan) as
follows:
1.Qillat-e-Ta’aam: To eat less.

2.Qillat-e-Kalaam: To speak less.
3.Qillat-e-Manaam: To sleep less.
4.Qillat-e-Ikhtilaat Ma’al Anaam: To associate less with people.
One who fully acquires these four qualities and becomes accustomed to
observe them, will attain the ability to control his nafs. He will be in a strong
position to check the evil desires of the nafs.
Mujaahadah against the nafs in its urges for sin is acquired when the nafs is
opposed to a certain degree in even its lawful desires, e.g. refusal to fulfil
immediately the desire of the nafs for some delicious food, its urge for such
food being rebutted and only fulfilled after vehement desire so that the nafs
does not become frustrated. When one becomes accustomed to oppose the
nafs in things lawful then it will become relatively simple to oppose the
sinful urges of the nafs. A person who grants his nafs absolute freedom in
the mubaahaat (lawful things) at times will not be able to suppress the urge
for sinning.
Summary
Riyaazat and Mujaahadah have two fundamentals (rukn):
1.Mujaahadah Jismaani or Mujaahadah Ijmaali (i.e. the physical

mujaahadah explained earlier).
2.Mujaahadah Tafseeli or Mujaahadah Nafsaani (i.e. the mujaahadah of

opposition explained earlier).
Mujaahadah Ijmaali has four fundamentals as stated above. In these acts

(viz. reduction in food, speech, sleep and association) it is necessary to adopt
moderation in accordance with the instruction of a Shaikh-e-Kaamil (a
spiritual guide qualified in this field). Neither is there to be excessive
indulgence in these acts because the result will be indolence and negligence,
nor should there be excessive reduction, for the consequence will be physical
36
weakness.
The second rukn (viz. Mujaahadah Tafseeli, is divided into two classes:
1.Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah: Beautiful and virtuous qualities.
2.Akhlaaq-e-Rareelah: Evil qualities.
These will be explained further ahead.
THE EXPOSITION OF THE FOUR FUNDAMENTALS OF

MUJAAHADAH IJMAALI
Allah Ta’ala states:
“He (i.e. man) utters nor a word, but a ready guard is
at hand.”
Rasulullah (ρ) said:

“He who maintains silence has attained
salvation.”
Ahmad, Tirmizi
Maalik (rahmatullah alayh) said that it reached him that Eesaa Bin Maryam
(alayhis salaam) said:
“Do not speak in abundance other than zikrullah,

for your hearts will become hard. Verily, a hard
heart is far from Allah, bur you know nor. And, do
not look at the sins of people as if you are the
overseer. Gaze at your sins as if you are slaves.
People are of two kinds: the one who is involved
(in sin) and the one who is saved (from sin). Have
mercy upon those involved and praise Allah
Ta’ala for protection (received).”Taiseer
Abundance of speech hardens the heart thereby eliminating humility and

fear. This fact is established by experience. A person becomes distanced
from Allah Ta’ala because of the hardness in the heart, but one fails to
realize this drift from Allah Ta’ala. The reality of it will be discerned in the
Aakhirat. Although the effects of such distance from Allah are detectable
here as well, but due to unconcern one fails to realise this. One should not
view the sins of others as if one has been appointed over others, but on the
37
contrary one should be concerned with one’s own sins so that compensation
could be offered and rectification adopted. Some people are involved in sin
and others again have been protected from sin. One should have mercy upon
those who have become involved in sin and not despise or criticize them.
Admonish them with kindness and make duaa on their behalf. Protection
against sins is a safeguard, hence one should not be vain and arrogant if one
is saved from sin. On the contrary, one should consider such protection as a
ni’mat (favour) of Allah a favour to which one is not entitled, and be
grateful.
Taqleel-e-Kalaam (Reducing Speech)

Man’s conversation apparently falls into three categories.
1.Beneficial. 111 such speech is some worldly or Deeni benefit.
2.Harmful. In such speech is some worldly or Deeni harm.
3.Neither beneficial nor harmful. The Hadith describes this third category of
speech as laa-ya’ni (futile, useless). On closer examination it will be realized
that this third class of speech belongs also to the second category, viz.
harmful talk. If SUBHAANALLAAH was uttered once during a time which
was squandered in futile talk, then half the pan in the Scale of Anil (deeds)
would be filled. If some advantageous or righteous act was done during the
time spent in futile conversation, it would have become an expiation for sin
and a medium of salvation in the Aakhirat. If not this, then at least such time
idly spent could have been expended in some worldly benefit. Rasulullah (ρ)
said:
“A sign of one’s Islam being healthy is one’s

shunning of futile acts and futile talks.”
In Ihyaa-ul Uloom it is mentioned that a reckoning will be taken (in

Aakhirat) of laa-ya’ni (futile) speech. There is therefore no certainty that one
will be saved from something which will be submitted to reckoning.
The mujaahadah of reducing conversation is more difficult than the

mujaahadah of reducing food and reducing sleep. In eating, preparation to a
certain extent is involved, moreover, there is a limit to food consumption.
Indigestion due to excessive eating will in itself compel one to reduce eating.
Similarly, there is a limit to sleeping. On the contrary, conversation requires
no effort and no difficulty is experienced in maintaining the tongue in
operation. Man resorts to pleasures so as to experience delight and joy.
Besides conversation, all other pleasures (hurooz) decrease in enjoyment
with greater indulgence. Eating with a filled stomach does not bring about
38
any enjoyment in the food. Excessive sleep too is not enjoyable. But, the
enjoyment derived from speaking is limitless. In fact, pleasure increases the
more one speaks. Hence, ‘aqleel-e-kalaam (reducing conversation) is the
most difficult. Inspite of this difficulty, freedom in it (i.e. in speech) has not
been granted because of the evils involved in abundant speech. One becomes
greatly involved in sin because of speaking much. Reducing speech has
therefore been stipulated as a rukn (fundamental) of mujaahadah.
Reducing speech does not mean reduction in such talk which is necessary.
But, it means shunning nonsensical or futile conversation even if such talk
happens to be lawful. If this habit is Inculcated then abstention from haraam
talks such as falsehood, scandalizing, slandering, etc. will be automatic.
Abstaining from unlawful discussion comes within the scope of true
mujaahadah - mujaahadah which is compulsory. If one becomes accustomed
to refrain from idle (although it may be lawful) talk which falls within the
scope of secondary mujaahadah then to a far greater degree will one practise
true mujaahadah (i.e. compulsory striving against haraam talk). It is not
permissible to shun talk which is necessary since this will result in problems
or cause inconvenience and difficulty to the audience.
Explanation of “Necessary”
“Necessary” here means such a need which if refrained from will result in
harm. Therefore, if by refraining from a certain conversation the result is
some worldly or Deeni harm, then such talk will be necessary. Example of
necessary talk is the conversation that a trader has with customers in order
to promote his sales. As long as his talk is in the interests of his trade it will
be regarded as necessary. Refraining from such talk will result in worldly
loss, hence the Shariat gives permission for such discussion. Such necessary
conversation has absolutely no detrimental effect of the heart. The heart does
not darken the slightest by such necessary talk. The illustrious Auliyaa have
experienced that even a full day spent in necessary talk will not adversely
affect the heart. An auctioneer can spend the entire day in selling by means
of talking, but such talking will not darken the heart one iota because such
talk is regarded as necessary. On the other hand, a single statement spoken
unnecessarily will darken the heart.
The Shariat’s prescription of reducing speech does not mean sealing the
mouth, but it envisages that the tongue be kept occupied with the tilaawat
(recitation) of the Qur’aan Majeed or in Thikr (remembrance) of Allah
Ta’ala. In this way the mujaahadah of speech reduction will be most
beneficial. By means of this mujaahadah of speech reduction will be most
39
beneficial. By means of this mujaahadah the tongue remains detached from
sin; the habit of nonsensical discussion is reduced (or eliminated), and along
with it limitless thawaab (spiritual reward) is obtained. By constantly
engaging the tongue in Thikr such benefit is acquired, which is unobtainable
by maintaining silence.
The Remedy
Prior to speaking, ponder for a few moments. Endeavour to understand
whether Allah Ta’ala Who is the Hearer and the See; will be pleased or
displeased with what you are about to speak. If this method of contemplation
is adopted before speaking, then, Insha’Allah, sinful talk will not emerge
from your lips. If after adopting such contemplation, the nafs urges one to
indulge in sinful or nonsensical talk, then confront it with courage and
suppress the urge. If any unbecoming talk was spoken then compensate
immediately for it by making taubah (repenting). If the talk involved abuse
to anyone, mockery of anyone, scandalizing or gossiping about anyone, then
after taubah obtain the pardon of the person concerned as well. If for some
reason it is difficult to obtain the necessary pardon (e.g. the person
concerned may be away or may have died) then make Istighfaar (seeking
Allah’s Forgiveness) for the person concerned as well as for oneself. Such
forgiveness could be asked in the following way:
Çóááøóåõãøó ÇÛúÝöÑúáóäóÇ æóáóåõ

“O Allah forgive us and forgive him.”
Hadhrat Shaikh Fareeduddin Atraar (rahmatullah alayh) explains most

beautifully, perfectly and comprehensively the benefits of maintaining
silence.
He says:
“In my mind does nor enter any topic nobler than

silence. Silence contains so many benefits that
they cannot be explained. Silence makes breasts
the treasure houses pearls of wisdom. I learnt
this hidden secret from the oyster’s shell.”
The drop of water enclosed in the oyster’s shell is transformed into a pearl.
Similarly, man’s breast becomes a treasure-house for pearls of wisdom by
means of`closure of the lips.
40
Qillat-e-Ta’am (Reducing food)
Allah Ta’ala states.
“Eat and drink, but do not waste. Verify, Allah does not
love those who transgress the limits.”

“Tasbeeh and Taqdees which are sufficient for
those of the heaven will suffice for them (people)
too.”
(Mishkaat)
This Hadith means that like Tasbeeh (reciting the Glories of Allah) and
Taqdees (reciting the Holiness of Allah) are sufficient for the Malaa-ikah
(Angels) in the heavens so will it suffice as nourishment for Muslims. It is
narrated that certain saints remained without food for long periods in
solitude engaged in Tasbeeh and Taqdees. It is clear from this Hadith that at
times Thikr and Tasbeeh are sufficient as nourishment. However, it is not
possible to adhere to the methods of food reduction practiced in former
times. The people of those days were endowed with great physical strength
and despite the great reduction in food they suffered no ill effect and
maintained their full concentration in their Ibaadat activities. Their physical
strength could be gauged from the type of spiritual exercises (ashghaal)
which they practiced. Some of their ashghaal were of such a severe nature
that if anyone attempts to practice them today he will find his back breaking.
Such an example is Salaat-e-Ma’koos which consists of suspending oneself
upside down and in this inverted manner carry out some shaghl (singular of
ashghaal).
In reality Rasulullah (ρ) did not prescribe taqleel-e-ta’aam, but altered the
routine rimes of eating and in this way made the intervals between eating
times longer. This change of habit (in eating times) and the longer intervals
(between eating times) which are difficult upon the nafs, have been
considered by the Shariat to be representative of taqleel-e-ta’aam. Among
the various forms of mujaahadah, fasting is the best. Hence, the Shariat has
given taqleel-e-ta’aam the form of fasting. In the Shariat, reduction of food
will therefore be fasting. The other forms of taqleel-e-ta’aam adopted by the
people of mujaahadah have no original basis in the Shariat. Eating less and
remaining hungry are not forms of mujaahadah of the Shariat. The
significance (fadheelat) of hunger mentioned in the Hadith does not refer to
voluntary (i.e. self-imposed) hunger, but refers to involuntary hunger –
hunger which comes one’s way uninvited. The Hadith consoles such persons
41
of poverty by explaining the virtues of hunger so that they do not worry and
suffer unduly.
Patience in the face of such divinely imposed hunger, occasions thawaab and
elevation of spiritual ranks. This significance of hunger is similar to the
significance of sickness explained in the Hadith. The Hadith mentions
thawaab for even sickness, but this does not mean that one has to voluntarily
induce sickness. The method of qillate-e-ta’aam mentioned in the book,
Tableeghe Deen by Imaam Ghazaali Rahmatullah Alayh, has been forbidden
because reduction in food is not the intended purpose of the Shariat, also
because the physique of people of today is unlike that of the people of earlier
times.
Qillat-e-ta’aam is not an end in itself, but is a means of acquiring an

intended aim. This intended aim and purpose is to weaken the animal urge in
man, and the aim in weakening this urge is to prevent the nafs from sin.
Therefore, if the nafs could be controlled and restrained from sin without
reducing food then taqleel-e-ta’aam is not necessary. Furthermore,
cheerfulness and joy in Ibaadat are experienced if the body is in the state of
health and strength. Experience shows that nowadays the health in most
cases suffers as a result of taqleel-e-ta’aam. But, at the same time one must
abstain from excessive eating and adhere to moderation. The capacity of
people differs, hence moderation will differ for different persons. The guide
line in this matter is to eat when hungry and to stop eating when you feel that
you can yet eat a few more morsels. In other words, one is allowed to eat to
one’s stomach fill, but not to satisfy one’s desire.
Qillat-e-Manaam (Reducing sleep)

Allah Ta’ala says:
“Stand up during the night, but a portion (of the
night); half the night or less than half the night.”
Qur ‘aan
The aforementioned aayat commands standing up during the night so that

the nafs becomes accustomed to striving. In this way the ability of the nafs
(to submit to righteousness) attains strength and perfection. Standing up
during the night is most efficacious for bringing the nafs into submission. All
forms of Ibaadat, be it Duaa or Qira’t, Namaaz or Thikr and be it external
(zahir) or internal (batin), are fulfilled in the proper manner during the night.
The meaning of proper external (zahir) discharge of Ibaadat during the night
is the proper and correct recital of the words since the time available is
42
ample. The meaning of proper internal (batin) discharge of Ibaadat is that
during the night one derives greater pleasure in Ibaadat. This is in fact what
is meant by the tongue and the heart conforming.
During the month of Ramadhaan the Shariat has ordered the performance of
Taraaweeh Salaat during the night because it envisages taqleel-e-manaam.
Like saum (fasting) has its role in taqleel-e-ta’aam, Taraaweeh has its role in
taqleel-e-manaam. Like the change of habit (i.e. in eating times) during
fasting induces mujaahadah, so too, does the change of habit in Taraaweeh.
The general habit prevailing is to sleep after ishaa. The command of
Taraaweeh brings about a change in the habit of sleeping, and this changing
of habit is difficult on the nafs. This is precisely mujaahadah.
In taqleel-e-manaam the Shariat does not stop at mere awakefulness, but

instructs the observance of Ibaadat during the time of awakefulness. Allah
Ta’ala praises pious servants in the Qur’aan:
“In the latter part of the night they make istighfaar.”
Elsewhere in the Qur’aan it is said:

“They separate their sides from the beds calling their
Rabb in fear and hope...”
In other words, they perform Salaat during the night. However the trend of
the aayat comprehends all forms of Ibaadat, hence it applies to Duaa and
Thikr as well. Furthermore, beside the Deeni benefits in sleeping less, the
physical health also benefits. Less sleep creates Nur (celestial light) on the
face. The following is the statement of a Muhaddith in this regard:
“The face of one who performs Salaat in
abundance during the night becomes beautiful
during the day.”
Excessive sleep is detrimental to the physical health as well. It reduces or

stunts the capacity of contemplation in a person. This in turn brings about
harm in both Deeni and worldly activities. A person who is given to
excessive sleeping is never able to be punctual in time.
Moderation in Qillat-e-Manaam
Moderation in this mujaahadah is also desirable. Nowadays this moderation
means sleeping at least six to seven hours. If sleep becomes over-bearing
then one should not ward it off. In this case postpone your wazeefah (act of
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Ibaadat) and sleep. The wazeefah should be completed later. If the sleep is
not over-powering then one should adopt courage and remain awake. If sleep
is warded off when it is really over-powering then the consequence will be
harmful to the mind as well as to the body in general. Confused thoughts will
arise in the mind and at times one is deceived into believing such confused
thoughts to be inspiration (ilhaam). Such a person then considers himself to
be a saint. The final result is insanity. Hence, Rasulullah (ρ) said:
“When any of you rises in the night and finds that

he is unable to recite the Qur’aan properly (due
to feeling sleepy), and he does not know what he
is reciting, then he should lay down.”
The advice in such cases of sleepiness is to lay down and not to ward off the
sleep. Some people who are extreme in their observance of taqleel-e-manaam
and other aspects of mujaahadah and do not heed the possibility of harm,
should take advice from this Hadith. This Hadith is an admonishment for
them. The advice given in this Hadith is two-fold.
1.At times extremism in mujaahadah proves detrimental to the physique.
2.When the words are not recited correctly because of over-powering sleep
then the necessary thawaab will not be obtained. Thus remaining awake will
serve no beneficial purpose in this case.
Qillat-e-Ikhtilaat Ma’al Anaam (Reducing association with people)

Unnecessary association with people should not be augmented. Remember
that besides Allah, there are three kinds of association.
1.Praiseworthy association. The Shariah commands this type of

association, for in itself it is an association with Allah Ta’ala.
Ending such association is not permissible.
2.Detestable association. The Shariat prohibits such association. Ending

such association is Waajib (compulsory).
3.Permissible association . This association is neither Ibaadat nor sin. It is not

necessary to end such association. Although permissible, there is a need to
reduce such association. The instruction to discontinue association refers to
detestable and permissible association and not to praiseworthy association.
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However, in so far as detestable association is concerned, the discontinuance
must be total, i.e. such association is to be compulsory ended, and in regard
to permissible association the meaning is reduction or limiting such
association.
As long as the relationship with the Creator is not well-established and

grounded, association with the creation is extremely harmful. The ostensible
reason advanced for association with people, viz., fulfilment of their
obligations, can be truly fulfilled only if the relationship with the Creator has
been firmly grounded. If the relationship with Allah has not been firmly
established then neither is the duty to creation fulfilled nor the duty to the
Creator. This fact has been proven by the experience of thousands of
Auliyaa.
Solitude is permissible, in fact best and advisable (afdhal) for one who has
no worldly or Deeni duty pertaining to himself or others to discharge. Such
solitude is of greater merit during times of strife and
mischief when it becomes difficult to have patience (sabr) in the face of
anxiety, agitation, confusion and anarchy. The Ahadith have extolled solitude
during such circumstances. Rasulullah (ρ): said in this regard:
“. . . a man who takes to solitude on the peak of a

mountain. He has goats, he fulfils their right and
makes the ibaadat of Allah.”
In another Hadith it appears:
“Soon a time will dawn when the best wealth of a

Muslim will be goats. He will go with them to a
peak of a, mountain and to places where rain-
water accumulates. He will flee from mischief
taking along his Deen.”
Bukhaari
Solitude (i.e. total dissociation from people) is not permissible for one who
has some duties and obligations to discharge, whether such duties pertain to
others or oneself, and whether it be obligations, e.g. providing maintenance
to one’s family when one does not have the ability of Tawakkul (trust in
Allah), or Deeni obligations, e.g. the acquisition of necessary Deeni
knowledge. Certain Ahadith which prohibit solitude refer to these two states
just mentioned. Such an example of prohibition is the case of Hadhrat
45
Uthmaan Ibn Math’un (radhiyallahu anhu). He was forbidden from adopting
solitude since he was yet in need of acquiring knowledge of the Deen. At the
same time Muslims also were in need of him regarding matters of the Deen,
especially in the fields of spreading the Word of Allah and developing Islam.
The above explanation pertains to solitude which is adopted permanently.

However, temporary solitude (khalwat) of a few days is necessary for the
mubtadi (beginner in Tasawwuf) in the majority of cases.
The Benefits of Solitude (Khalwat)

Among the numerous benefits ensuing from solitude is the abstention from
sin provided that in solitude control is exercised over the eyes as well. The
ears as well as the heart have to be guarded in solitude. Deliberately the
thought of anyone besides Allah Ta’ala should not be introduced into the
mind. In the event of any such stray thought entering the mind, the one
sitting in solitude should immediately ward off the thought by engaging in
Thikrullaah. In such a well-guarded solitude there is indeed great protection
against sin.
It is quite manifest that prevention against evil has priority over the
acquisition of gain, hence solitude has priority over association. Although
association (i.e. with others) has its many benefits, nevertheless many sins
follow in its wake. Secondly, qillat-e-kalaarn (less conversation) is difficult
with association (ikhtilaat). Only the Siddiqeen and those perfected in
spiritualism are able to exercise perfect control over their tongues (as well as
other emotions) even ill association with others. In most cases futile and
nonsensical discussions take place when one is in association with others.
The hearts of those who have no solitude in their time become progressively
denuded of anwar (spiritual effulgence).
The Benefits of Association (Ikhtilat)

For certain persons in particular circumstances, association is beneficial.
Among such benefits are acquisition (ta’allum) of knowledge and imparting
(ta’leem) of knowledge, Ta’leem and ta’allum are dependant upon
association (ikhtilaat). Ikhtilaat affords the opportunity of rendering service
to creation. The fadheelat (significance and benefits) of. Jama’t Salaat is
available by means of ikhtilat. One who has adopted total solitude is
deprived of the thawaab of Jama’t and service to creation. Tawadhu
(humility) is also the result of ikhtilat. The faidh (spiritual manificence) of
the Deen is obtained by means of associating with the Auliyaa.
46
The Effective Method

Execute every act and duty at its stipulated time. Mundane (worldly) duties
in their time and Ibaadat on its time. Even occasional humour and light-
hearted talk for pleasing the hearts of Muslims should be resorted to at
opportune times. One’s daily life should be conducted in this controlled
manner. Total solitude is not always ideal because sometimes eagerness and
enthusiasm in one are dulled and it then becomes difficult to progress.
Service to creation is extremely beneficial for the Saalik (the one who trods
the Path of Spiritual Progress), but his ikhtilat (association) should not
exceed his time required for rendering his service to creation. Association in
excess to the required measure is fraught with batini (pertaining to the ruh)
evils and harm. One should not increase one’s association and connections,
for such increase interferes with thikrullah.
One should remain in solitude as long as the heart finds solace and united
with Allah Ta’ala. However, when one becomes disturbed and frustrated in
solitude as a result of a multitude of thoughts striking the mind, one should
withdraw from solitude and sit in company. But, it is essential that the
company be pious. The stray thoughts and frustration will be eliminated in
such company. In such circumstances ikhtilat (association) is in the same
category as khalwat (solitude).
These four aspects (discussed so far), viz., qillat-e-kalam, qillat-e-ta’am,

qillat-e-manam and qillat-e-ikhtilat ma-al anam belong to Mujahadah Ijmali.
In the ensuing pages will be discussed the kinds of Mujahadah Tafseeli.
AKHLAAQ
Khalq and Khulq are two different terms. Khalq refers to external form
while khulq means internal form. Man, while consisting of body and
physical parts, also consists of spiritual parts, viz., Rooh and Nafs. His
physical body has been given the faculty of basaarat (sight) which is
exercised by the eyes of the body. Similarly, he has been given the faculty of
baseerat (insight or seeing with the “eyes”of the heart). The external eyes
lack the ability to perceive the internal dimension.
Allah Ta’ala has created men with these two component parts (physical body
and spiritual fern)) in different moulds. He has bestowed to them different
physical forms along with various internal forms. Some have a beautiful
47
form and character and some have ugly form and character. The physical
form is known as soorat while the spiritual or internal form is known as
seerat. The rank of seerat is higher than that of soorat because Allah Ta’ala
has related the former to Himself. In this regard He said:
“I blew in him (Aadam) My Rooh.”
In this Aayat, Allah Ta’ala relates “Rooh” to Himself. In another Aayat, He

says:
“Say, the Rooh is of My Command.”
This indicates that the Rooh is not lowly nor of dust. However, Allah Ta’ala
has related the physical body to soil. He says:
“Verily, I shall be creating man from soil.”
The meaning of Rooh in this context is the substance which was generated
by the direct ilhaam (inspiration) of Allah Ta’ala. Each such substance
(Rooh) acquire cognition of things in proportion to its inherent ability.
It has thus been established that the object of greater honour and importance
is the Command of Allah, viz. the Seerat of man. As long as beauty is not
inculcated into the baatini (internal) dimension of man, he will not be
described as having a beautiful seerat. Allah Ta’ala has granted the physical
body limbs, e.g. hands, feet, etc. Similarly, has He bestowed “limbs”to the
internal form. The “limbs”of the internal form are the faculties of
knowledge, anger, desire and justice. A seerat will not be called beautiful
until these four faculties have been adorned. Imperfection in the seerat is
comparable to deformity in the physical beds (soorat). Like a deformed
physical body cannot be called beautiful, so too will a defective internal
form not be described as beautiful. For example: if one’s faculty of anger
(quwwa-e-ghadbiyyah) is below the level of equilibrium and one’s faculty of
desire (quwwat-e-shahwaaniyah) is excessive above the degree of
equilibrium then one’s character (seerat) will not be described as beautiful.
The I’tidaal (Equilibrium) and Husan (Beauty) of the Four

Internal Faculties
48
The Faculty of Knowledge (Ilm)
The i’tidaal of Ilm is man’s ability to distinguish between statements of
falsehood and truth; between beliefs of Haqq and Baatil, and between deeds
of vice and virtue. When this ability has been cultivated the fruits of wisdom
(hikmat) will be experienced. Kegarding such hikmat, Allah Ta’ala says:
“He who has been granted hikmut, indeed he has

been granted abundant goodness.”
In reality this hikmat, is the root of all significance and excellences.
The faculty of wrath and the faculty of desire

The i’tidaal of these two faculties is that both begin to operate along the
lines of Hikmat and Shariat, submitting in entirety to the demands and
commands of the Shari’at and abstaining from it prohibitions.
The Faculty of Justice

The i’tidaal of the faculty of justice is to hold the reins of the faculty of
wrath and the faculty of desire and to ensure that the! conform to the Deen
and Intelligence. Aql (intelligence) is like the king and the faculty of justice is
like the deputy of the king. It has to comply with the orders of the king.
The faculties of ghadbiyah (wrath) and shahwaaniyah (desire) should be like

the trained hunting dogs of a hunter or like a well-trained horse, answering
and acting in accordance with the call of the master. When these conditions
are cultivated and become praiseworthy man will be described at the
repository of beautiful character. His seerat u-ill be said to be beautiful.
About the Faculty of Wrath

When this faculty is in the state of i’tidaal it is known as shuja-at (valour,
bravery). This is praiseworthy by Allah Ta’ala. An excess in this faculty will
he called tahawwur (rashness) and a deficiency will be termed jubnat
(cowardice). Both rile conditions of tahawwur and jubnat are reprehensible.
In the wake of the laudable state of shujaa-at (valour) flow the qualities of
kindness. chivalry, courage, generosity, forbearance, steadfastness,
tenderness, the ability to restrain anger, dignity and far-sightedness in all
affairs. The state of tahawwur produces inexperience, boastfulness, pride,
49
inability to restrain anger, and vanity. The state of jubnat creates cowardice,
disgrace, contempt, inferiority. All these lowly qualities find external
manifestation.
ABOUT THE FACULTY OF DESIRE

The name of the state of i’tidaal of the faculty of desire is called Paar-saa-i
(Chastity). When this faculty exceeds equilibrium, it will be termed hirs
(greed) and hawaa (lust). Allah Ta’ala loves the condition of chastity. The
excellences produced by chastity are generosity, shame, patience,
contentment and it is also termed ittiqaa. In this state man’s desire and hope
decrease, fear and humility increase and the wish to aid others is engendered.
If this faculty falls below itidaal it results in greed, expectation, flattery,
servitude to wealthy persons, contempt for the poor, shamelessness,
extravagance, show, narrow mindedness, impotency, envy, etc.
ABOUT AQL (INTELLIGENCE)

Equilibrium in Aql makes man wise, cultured, sharp-witted and far-sighted.
His advice will be sound and he possess the ability to act in all affairs.
Ingenuity manifests in him. If Aql exceeds i’tidaal it will be called deceptive,
fraudulent and imposture. Aql below the degree of i’tidaal will be ignorance,
dim-wittedness and stupidity. The consequence of this is that such a person
is quickly misled.
In short, man will be described as having a beautiful seerat only when all
these faculties are in the state of equilibrium. It has been said that the best of
affairs is its middle (its state of equilibrium). Allah Ta’ala says:
“Our servants are such that they neither are

extravagant nor are they niggardly but they remain in
a condition in between (i.e. in the stare of
equilibrium).”
Internal beauty (seerat) varies with people just as external beauty (soorat)
differs. The possessor of the most beautiful seerat was Rasulullah (ρ). About
Iris excellence, the Qur’aan declares:
“Verily, you me on a splendid character.”
Among the Muslims the degree of beauty of character (seerat) will be in
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proportion to the degree in which they resemble the character of Rasulullah
(ρ). The greater the resemblance in them with the character of Rasulullah
(ρ), the greater will be the beauty of their seerat. It is evident that success
and fortune in the Aakhirah will be in proportion to the beauty of seerat
acquired.
ALL AKHLAAQ ARE NATURAL

All qualities of seerat (akhlaaq) are natural propensities. In so far as natural
propensity is concerned an attribute is neither reprehensible nor
praiseworthy. The attributes become praiseworthy or reprehensible by
operation. Rasulullah (ρ) said:
“He who gives for the sake of Allah and withholds

for the sake of Allah, verily, he has perfected his
Imaan.”
The stipulation, “for the sake of Allah” is related to both “giving” and
“withholding”. It is clear from this, that unrestricted generosity is not
praiseworthy neither is niggardliness (i.e. to withhold spending) in itself
reprehensible. Both will be praiseworthy if employed for the sake of Allah
Ta’ala and both will be reprehensible if not for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.
The principle governing the elimination of akhlaaq-e-zameemah

(reprehensible attributes) is “for the sake of Allah or not for the sake of
Allah.” Insha-Allah this will be explained in detail further on. All
reprehensible attributes are inter-related. Hence, the nafs will come under
control only after the elimination of all such attributes. Rectifying one
attribute while ignoring another will not prove beneficial. One afflicted b! a
number of ailments will be considered healthy only after all the ailments
have been cured. Similarly, man will have acquired a beautiful baatin
(internal form) when all his internal conditions have become praiseworthy.
Rasulullah (ρ) said that a Muslim in fact is he whose character is perfect.
He also said that the noblest Believer is one who has the best character. This
basis is thus called Deen, and Rasulullah (ρ) came to perfect this Deen.
KINDS OF AKHLAAQ
There are two kinds of Akhlaaq-e-Baatiniyah (internal attributes). One type
is related to the heart and the other to the nafs. Akhlaaq-e-Baatiniyah related
to the heart are called Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah (the Beautiful Attributes) and
51
Malakaat-e- Faadhilah (the Excellent Faculties). These are also referred to
as Maqaamaat. They consist of:
Tauheed, ikhlaas, taubah, muhabbat-e-ilaahi, zuhd, tawakkul, qanaa-at,
hilm, sabr, shukr, sidq, tafweez, tasleem, ridhaa, fanaa, and fanaa-ul-fanaa.
(These will be dealt with in detail further on).
The type of Akhlaaq-e-Baatiniyah related to the nafs are called Akhlaaq-e-

Razeelah (the Despicable Attributes). They are:
Tama’, toolul aml, ghussah, darogh, gheebat, hasad, bukhl, riyaa, ujub, kibr,
hiqd, hubb-e-maal, hubb-e-jah, hubb-e-dunya.
The process of purifying the nafs from these attributes is called Tazkiyah-e-
Nafs. In this regard, Allah Ta’ala says:
“He who has made tazkiyah (purified) his nafs, verily,

he has attained success.”
AKHLAAQ-E-HAMEEDAH
TAUHEED
“And, Allah has created you and your deeds.”
“And you desire nothing, but that Allah Ta’ala desires

it.”
“Know that if all creation united to benefit you,

they will not be able to grant you any benefit but
that which Allah has ordained for you. And if they
unite to harm you, they will not harm you in the
least, but that harm which Allah has ordained for
you.”
THE NATURE OF TAUHEED

Tauheed in this discussion refers to Tauheed-e-Af’aali or Unity of Actions.
52
This means that one has to have implicit and strong faith that without the
Will of Allah nothing can happen.
This state of Tauheed is acquired by contemplating on the weakness of

creation and the power of the Creator.
IKHLAAS (SINCERITY)
“They have not been commanded, but to render
ibaadat unto Allah sincerely establishing the Deen for
Him and turning away from all others.”
“Verily, Allah does not look at your external forms

and your wealth, but He looks at your intentions
and actions.”
THE NATURE OF IKHLAAS

Ikhlaas means to have the intention of only Allah in one’s acts of obedience.
The motive must be only the Proximity and Pleasure of Allah. This motive
must nor be contaminated with personal motives of gain or
the pleasure of others.
ACQUISITION OF IKHLAAS
Elimination of riyaa (show) is precisely the acquisition of Ikhlaas.
THE BENEFITS OF IKHLAAS

No matter what type of righteousness an act may be and no matter how little
it may be, if it is accompanied by ikhlaas, it will be permeated with barkat
even if there is no helper. Thawaab will increase in proportion to the degree
of ikhlaas. For this very reason it comes in the Hadith:
“A half a mud (a measure) of corn given in

charity by my Ashaab is nobler than gold equal to
Mount Uhud given in charity by others.”
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The secret is the degree of ikhlaas. The ikhlaas in the Sahaabah is far
superior to the ikhlaas in others. Their reward is in terms of their sincerity
and love.
The highest stage of ikhlaas is the rendering of an act for the sake of only
Allah Ta’ala, creation having absolutely no connection in one’s motive. A
lesser degree of ikhlaas is that the act is rendered to please people but it was
not motivated by any desire for worldly gain. The motive was merely to
please others. The third degree of ikhlaas is to render an act without having
any motive. The motive is neither the Deen nor the world. This too is
ikhlaas, i.e. the non-existence of riyaa (show).
TAUBAH
“O Believers! Make taubah unto Allah Ta’ala a pure
taubah.”

“O people! Make taubah unto Allah.”
Muslim
The Nature of Taubah

Taubah (repentance) is the regret and sadness which arise in the heart when
remembering a sin. For the validity of the taubah, shunning the sin, firmly
resolving to abstain from it in future and controlling the nafs when it urges
for the sin, are necessary.
The meaning of taubah is to return and to return from the far side to the near
side. It has a beginning and an end. The beginning (ibtida’) of taubah is the
spreading of the rays of Nur-e-Ma’rifat (the Light of Divine Recognition) of
the heart which thus realises that the sin committed is a fatal poison which
wroughts great spiritual disaster. This realization induces regret and fear
which result in a true and sincere yearning to compensate for the sin. This
yearning is to such a degree that shunning of the sin is immediate. Further, a
firm resolve and intention are made to totally abstain from the sin in future.
Along with this intention a full effort is made to compensate for the past
shortcoming. When the result is this fruit of taubah pertaining to the past,
present and future, then perfection of taubah has been acquired. This then is
the end (intiha) of taubah.
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The Need for Taubah

It should be clear that taubah is Waajib (compulsory) upon every person
because Allah Ta’ala addresses all Muslims in the aayat:
“O Believers! Make taubah unto Allah, a pure taubah.”
Since the reality of taubah is to regard sin as a fatal poison and disaster for
the life of the Hereafter, and to firmly resolve to shun sin, and this much is
part of Imaan, it therefore being waajib and necessary is apparent to every
Mu’min. Hence, Allah Ta’ala says:
“He who makes taubah after his transgression and

reforms, verily Allah turns towards him.”
Qur’aan
The meaning of this aayat is:
Allah Ta’ala will forgive, have mercy upon and aid the person who after
having sinned renders taubah according to the rule of the Shariat and
reforms his acts for the future, i.e. he abstains from all evil, practices in
conformity with the Shariat and remains firm on his taubah.
THE WAY OF MAKING TAUBAH

Taubah or repentance is to confess to Allah Ta’ala one’s sins and to regret
such commission. Resolve firmly to discharge all huqoaqul Ibaad (rights of
others) and other duties which are obligatory, but which have not been
rendered. This intention should be immediately made and thereafter the
actual fulfilment of such rights and duties put into motion. Alternatively, the
pardon of those whose rights were usurped should be obtained.
When a sin has been committed, immediately perform two raka’ts Salaat
with the intention of Taubah. One then has to offer repentance with both the
tongue and heart. The taubah should be made fervently and vigorously. If
one is unable to shed tears, then one’s face should rake on the appearance of
a concerned and crying person while making taubah.
For the purpose of making taubah, recall your sins and then offer repentance
in profusion. However, do not meditate about the sins committed or do not
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make vigorous attempts in a bid to remember what sins had been committed,
for this attitude will create a barrier between the repenter and Allah Ta’ala.
This constitutes an obstacle in the path of love and progress. After having
made a sincere taubah, if previous sins come to mind then renew the taubah.
Do not be too much concerned about sins for which taubah has already been
made.
While making taubah there should be a degree of moderation in mentioning

the sins. There is no need to recite a whole list of sins while making taubah.
Seek forgiveness for all sins in general. According to the Hadith Shareef one
should say:
“And, I repent of even such sins which You are

more aware of.”
“I repent of such sins which I am aware of and of

such sins which I am unaware.”
Pondering about sins is in actual fact destruction of time and diversion from
the remembrance of Allah. However, one should make special taubah for
sins which one recalls automatically. The real Goal is Allah Ta’ala and not
the remembrance of sins neither the remembrance of acts of obedience. The
purpose of remembering sins is to offer repentance. Hence, once taubah has
been made, one should not deliberately and consciously ponder over sins
thereby making such remembrance a definite purpose because this will
engender the idea that Allah Ta’ala is displeased with one, and this is a
dangerous idea.
THE METHOD OF ACQUIRING TAUBAH

Remember and reflect about the warnings sounded in the Qur’aan and
Hadith in regard to sins. The pang of regret which enters the heart as a result
of such reflection is in actual fact taubah.
MUHABBAT
“He (Allah Ta’ala) loves them and they love Him.”
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“Those who have Imaan are strongest in love for
Allah.”
“He who loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet

him. And, he who detests the meeting with Allah,
Allah detests meeting him.”
THE NATURE OF MUHABBAT

The inclining of the heart towards something which gives it pleasure is called
muhabbat (love).
Muhabbat consists of two kinds: Muhabbat Tab’i (physical love) and

Muhabbat Aqli (intellectual love). Muhabbat Tab’i is not a voluntary or
volitional condition. Its occurrence and endurance are non-volitional.
Sometimes non-volitional acts are not lasting and are merely transitory. It is
for this reason that Muhabbat Tab’i is not commanded. On the contrary, the
origination and endurance of Muhabbat Aqli are volitional. It is, therefore a
state which can endure. Muhabbat Aqli is thus commanded. It is this kind of
Love which is superior and preferable. Since the source of physical love is
emotion, it is a passing state.
THE CAUSES OF MUHABBAT

There are three factors giving rise to muhabbat;
1. IHSAAN (Kindness and favour). Ihsaan shown gives rise to muhabbat .
2. JAMAAL (Beauty). Beauty brings about attraction which gives rise to

muhabbat.
3. KAMAAL (Perfection). Perfection in a thing also induces muhabbat .
These three attributes par excellence exist in only Allah Ta’ala. The
muhabbat endures as long as these attributes endure. In so far as the Object
of True Love (Allah Ta’ala) is concerned, these attributes are eternal. They
will endure forever, hence love for Him is perpetual. Since, the existence of
attributes in the state of perfection is not found independently (Biz-zaat) in
any being other than Allah Ta’ala, the kamileen (the Saints who have
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attained spiritual perfection) cannot have Muhabbat Aqli (Intellectual Love)
for anyone besides Allah Ta’ala. Muhabbat–Tab’i (physical love) is possible
with others, but the love which has been commanded for Allah Ta’ala is
Muhabbat Aqli. The terminology of the Qur’aan and Hadith describes: this
form of love as Hubb. This should not be understood to mean that the
kamileen are devoid of Muhabbat Tab’i. However, in them (the kamileen),
Muhabbat Aqli is dominant. At times Muhabbat Tab’i in the kamileen
exceeds the love in those in whom Muhabbat Tab’i is dominant, but
Muhabbat Aqli remains dominant inspite of this comparative higher degree
of Muhabbat Tab’i. At times, Muhabbat Tab’i becomes dominant in even the
kamileen, but this is not frequent.
In short, the kamileen are perfect in both Muhabbat Aqli and Muhabbat
Tab’i, the former being dominant while in others, Muhabbat Tab’i (physical
love) is dominant. Although this attribute of excellence (in the kamileen) is
not a goal in itself, it nevertheless is praiseworthy. Those devoid of both
these aspects of love are in danger. Muhabbat is thus essential. Obedience
without muhabbat is not sufficient since there is no resolution and firmness
in such acts of obedience devoid of love.
ACQUIRING THE MUHABBAT OF ALLAH

Constant remembrance and contemplation of the Attributes and Bounties of
Allah Ta’ala will induce the desired Muhabbat for Him. Compliance with
the Laws of the Shariat and much Thikr of Allah expel the love of others
from the heart, making way for the exclusive Love of Allah Ta’ala.
SHOUQ
“Those who yearn for the meeting with Allah (should
take solace in the knowledge) that, verily, the Time of
Allah is approaching.”

“I ask of You (O Allah!) sight of Your Face and
Shouq (eagerness) for meeting You.”
THE NATURE OF SHOUQ

The condition of natural desire (eagerness) which is a physical state to
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behold and fully comprehend a beloved object whose perfection is only
partially known is termed Shouq.
Shouq is the initial stage of Muhabbat. At a later stage it develops into uns
(affection). At this stage the conditions prevailing during shouq do not
remain. Among such conditions are profuse crying and absorption in thought
to such a degree that this condition asserts its dominance. Some (along the
journey) consider such conditions to be the goal (of the sojourn), hence
become depressed when these are reduced in the state of uns. However, there
is no need to be concerned at this reduction in such feelings because the goal
is not the state of shouq to be perpetual – that one should at all times be
engulfed in this state. The purpose is not to eliminate natural desires neither
is the purpose to create a constant throb in the heart. Rasulullah (ρ),
explained the limit of shouq in the following way:
“(O Allah!) I petition You for shouq for meeting

You; such shouq which is devoid of hardship and
which does not harm; such shouq which is not a
trial leading astray.”
Sometimes excessive affection and love bring about destruction. It brings

about a disturbance in righteous acts (a’mal) which are in fact the medium
for attaining Divine Proximity. The true goal is achieved via the agency of
executing the Divine Commands. Excessive shouq (eagerness) and ishq
(love) interfere with this means. At times when shouq is overpowering, one
transgresses the limits of respect and makes such statements which are
disrespectful. Most ush-shaq (those immersed and lost in love) are guilty of
disrespectful statements which they utter in states of ecstasy. This disrespect
is harmful although such disrespect uttered in ecstasy is forgiven. But, it is
not a condition of kamal (excellence). Rasulullah (ρ) was perfect in
obedience, respect and love, hence he made the du’a mentioned above.
ACQUIRING SHOUQ
Shouq being a necessary corollary of Muhabbat, its acquisition is by
inculcating Muhabbat of Allah Ta’ala.
THE NATURE OF UNS

Uns is a state of delight and pleasure induced by true recognition of certain
known attributes of an object. In this state the object is known only partially,
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part of it being hidden. The known attributes on which the gaze Is focussed
induce the condition of uns.
Uns is also a necessary corollary of Muhabbat. Its acquisition is along with

Muhabbat of Allah Ta’ala.
KHAUF
Allah Ta’ala commands in the Qur’aan Shareef:
“And Fear Me.”

“He who fears, sets off (on the journey) at night;
he who sets off at night, “reaches the destination;
Hark! The merchandise of Allah is expensive.
Hark! The merchandise of Allah is Jannat.”
Nature of Khauf
Khauf is the painful condition of the heart, which arises as a result of
thinking of something reprehensible and the fear of it materializing.
The nature of khauf consists of the possibility of athab (punishment). This

possibility extends to every person, for he may be overtaken by athab. This
is the extent of khauf which has been commanded and imposed upon the
servant. This extent, viz. fearing the possibility of athab, is a compulsory
condition (shart) of Imaan. It is also known as khaufe-e-aqli (intellectual
fear). At the behest of sin this faculty (khauf-e-aqli) has to be put into
operation. The warnings and punishments of Allah Ta’ala should be recalled
and ruminated over so as to be saved from sin. This degree of khauf is Fardh
(compulsory). Its non-existence induces and involves one in sin. It is the
medium of exhorting towards virtue and steering one away from sin.
Allah Ta’ala has combined the noble attributes of hidayat guidance from
Allah), rahmat (mercy), ilm (knowledge) and ridha (contentment) for those
who are imbued with the khauf of Allah Ta’aIa. All beings fear the one who
fears Allah Ta’ala. Allah Ta’ala has stated that in the servant, two fears will
not combine. This means that the servant of Allah, who on earth entertains
the khauf of Allah Ta’ala, will be fearless in the Akhirat; and, he who had no
khauf of Allah Ta’ala on earth, will be overtaken by fear and calamity. In
this regard, Rasulullah (ρ) said:
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“On the Day of Qiyaamat every eye will he crying

excepting the eye which refrained from gazing at
that which Allah Ta’ala had forbidden, and the
eye which stood guard in the Path of Allah, and
the eye from which emerged a tear-drop equal in
size to the head of a fly, in fear of Allah Ta’ala.”
In a Hadith of Mishkat Shareef it is said that Allah will make haraam

(unlawful) the fire of Jahannam for such a person. In the hadith it is also
stated that on the Day of Qivamat, Allah Ta’ala will proclaim to the
malaikah to remove from the Fire anyone who had at any time or occasion
feared Allah.
Fear is thus incumbent for every Mu’min. There are two reasons for this
need.
1.The possibility of one committing voluntarily an act of disobedience in

the future.
2.The possibility of some act of disobedience having been voluntarily

committed, but due to negligence one’s attention has been diverted
therefrom. Such diversion is also a voluntary act of disobedience.
It is a fact that the robber because of the fear of being apprehended abstains
from robbery; the child because of the fear of punishment abstains from
mischief; because of the fear of being fined people refrain from violation of
law. When fear is effaced, anarchy is the consequence in the land. Khauf
severs the roots of all evil while at the same time it is the medium of all
obedience.
The manner in which to acquire the khauf of Allah Ta’ala is to meditate on

his Wrath and Athaab.
RAJAA
“Do not despair of the Rahmat of Allah...”

“If even the kaafir realises the extent of Allah’s
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Rahmat (mercy), he (too) will not loose hope of
Jannat.”
Nature of Rajaa
Raja is the state of the heart’s tranquillity which develops as a result of one’s
yearning for the desirable objects of fadhl (Divine Grace), Maghfirat
(forgiveness), Ni’mat (Bounty) and Jannat, while devising ways and means
for their attainment. Thus one who remains in expectation of Rahmat and
Jannat, but does not adopt the means of their acquisition, viz., amal salih
(righteous deeds), taubah (repentance), etc., will not attain the goal of Rajs.
He remains on the contrary in deception. He is like the one who inspite of
not sowing the seeds, expect s to reap the crop. He dwells in empty desire.
The manner of acquiring Raja is to reflect about the vastness of Allah’s

Rahmat and His Munificence.
ZUHD
Allah Ta’ala states:
“...So that you do not grieve over what you have lost
nor become proud over what you have.”

“The first virtue of this Ummat is yaqeen (firm
faith) and zuhd, and the first corruption of this
Ummat is bukhl (niggardliness) and amal (distant
and remote hopes).”
Nature of Zuhd
Zuhd is to refrain from an object of desire in the pursuit of a nobler
objective, e.g. refraining from the desire of the world and pursuing the desire
of the Akhirat. This is Zuhd. The basis of Zuhd is the Nur and Ilm which
Allah Ta’ala inspires into the heart of man. As a result, his breast expands
and he realises with clarity that the world with all its belongings is more
contemptible than the wing of a fly and that only Akhirat is noble and
everlasting. When this Nur is acquired, the worthlessness of the world fully
dawns upon man. The effect of Zuhd is the attainment of contentment upon
the obtainal of the bare necessities of life. Thus the Zahid (the one who has
Zuhd) is satisfied with the bare necessities in the same way as the traveller is
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satisfied with the necessities which he takes along on his sojourn.
Zuhd is not abstention from pleasures. Reduction of pleasures is sufficient

for the attribute of Zuhd. In other words, one should not be engrossed in
pleasures. Constantly hankering after luxuries is negatory of Zuhd. On the
contrary, obtainal of luxuries without undue effort and arrangement is the
ni’mat of Allah Ta’ala, for which shukr (gratefulness) has to be offered.
Along with granting comfort to the nafs, effort too should be imposed on it.
In all truth, gold and silver and the world with all its possessions, in the sight
of one whose gaze is focussed on Allah, are of no value. Rasulullah (ρ)
never preferred the world for himself nor for those close to him. Whatever
creation possesses is the material of the world. It is essential to sever one’s
hope from all things. He who is successful in this objective, will attain
tranquillity, because both heart and body find rest and peace in Zuhd.
The manner in which to acquire Zuhd is to meditate on the defects, harms

and ephemeral nature of the world, as well as to reflect on the benefits and
the everlasting nature of the Akhirat.
TAWAKKUL
“Upon Allah should the Believers have tawakkul
(trust).”

“When you ask, ask of Allah and when you seek
aid, seek from Allah.”
THE NATURE OF TAWAKKUL

Reposing implicit trust of the heart in only the Creator is called tawakkul.
The meaning of tawakkul is expressed by the term taukeel (to make or
appoint a wakeel or a counsellor, agent, representative). When one lacks the
understanding and ability for something then another is appointed to execute
the task. Such appointment of an agent to act on one’s behalf is the meaning
of taukeel. Tawakkul then is to act in accordance with Allah’s Scheme, i.e. to
adopt the principles and laws of the Shariat, and to resign oneself unto Him.
In every act or task, the means required for the task will be employed within
the confines of the Shariat and one’s trust will be placed in Allah Ta’ala.
63
THE FUNDAMENTALS (ARKAN) OF TAWAKKUL
Tawakkul has three fundamental principles: Ma’rifat, Halat and A’mal.
MA’RIFAT
This consists of Tauheed of Allah Ta’ala which means:
Besides Allah there is no object of worship; He is Incomparable; He has no
partner; All sovereignty belongs to Him; All praise and glory belongs to
Him; He has power over all things. This conception of Tauheed
acknowledges that Allah Ta’ala possesses such perfect power and wisdom
which make Him worthy of all praise and glory. Sincere and honest belief in
this conception of Tauheed grounds true Imaan in the heart. The effect of
Imaan grounding itself in the heart is Tawakkul. The condition essential for
achieving this tawakkul is sincere acknowledgement of tauheed. The
meaning of sincere acknowledgement is that this Tauheed pervades the heart
so much that there remains no room in one’s heart to entertain any other
concept.
HAALAT
The Haal of Tawakkul is to resign oneself to Allah Ta’ala. Assign all affairs
to Him and maintain the heart in the state of peace and tranquillity. it
envisages diversion from all and everything other than Allah Ta’ala. Upon
Allah Ta’ala being made the Wakeel one resigns in full confidence. Allah
Ta’ala, the Wakeel is full of Wisdom and is the Benefactor and Protector of
the one who has reposed tawakkul in him. There is therefore no need for- the
heart to toss in doubt and uncertainty. He will not allow your enemy to
vanquish you. In this way when one fully realizes that rizq (sustenance),
maut (death), hayat (life) and all affairs of creation are within the direct
power and control of Allah Ta’ala, then there is absolutely no cause for the
heart to labour in uncertainty and suffer any lack of confidence.
A’MAL
The ignorant labour under the misconception that Tawakkul entails
abstention from effort, the means and material agencies. This idea of
tawakkul is highly erroneous. Tawakkul does not advocate shunning or
abstaining from the material agencies which Allah Ta’ala has created and
made subservient to man. Shunning the legitimate use of the material means
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and agencies for legitimate purposes and needs is not lawful according to the
Shariat.
ACQUIRING TAWAKKUL
The way in which to acquire Tawakkul is by contemplating the bounties of
Allah Ta’ala, His Promises and one’s past success.
QANA’AT
Qana’at or contentment means in this regard abstention from desires.
Contemplating about the transitory and perishable nature of the world
inculcate Qana’at.
HILM
Hilm or perseverance means to hold in check the nafs in the face of events
which are distasteful to one. This quality of Hilm is acquired by the
eradication of anger. One has to contemplate constantly about the
remedies for anger. This will be explained in the chapter on Akhlaq-e-
Razeelah (The Despicable Attributes).
SABR
“O People of Imaan! Adopt sabr (patience).”

“A Believer is To be marvelled because every
condition of his is good. This is exclusive to the
Believer. If he attains happiness, he makes shukr
(is thankful) and if calamity overtakes him, he
adopts sabr.”
NATURE OF SABR
In man are two conflicting forces. The one force impels him towards Deen
and righteousness while the other drives him towards base desires, Asserting
the Deeni force and subduing the force of lust is called Sabr. In the state of
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Sabr, the Deeni force in man asserts its dominance over the lowly force of
base desire. Its definition is given as follows:
“Maintaining control of the nafs in the face of

such things which the nafs dislikes.”
THE TYPES OF SABR

There are three kinds of Sabr.
1. SABR ALAL AMAL

2. SABR FIL AMAL
3. SABR ANIL AMAL
SABR ALAL AMAL

This means to be firm and constant in practising righteous deeds.
SABR FIL AMAL

This means to have sabr while engaging in the righteous deed. The nafs is
held in control and prevented from diversion while engaged in the act of
virtue. Acts of Ibaadat have to be discharged adequately by the observance
of the principles and rules pertaining to such acts. Full attention has to be
directed towards the act.
SABR ANIIL AMAL

This means to have sabr in the non-commission of any act or to restrain the
nafs from indulging in the prohibitions of Allah Ta’ala.
NI’MAT AND MUSEEBAT

Ni’mat (fortune, favour, blessing) produces delight and happiness which in
turn result in muhabbat (love) tor Allah, The Benefactor. On the contrary
museebat (difficulty, hardship, calamity) produces unpleasantness and grief.
Thus the occasion of sabr is in the face of museebat. Museebat is the
condition detested by the nafs. This condition is of two kinds: first, the form
of hardship, and second true hardship.
Grief and frustration follow in the wake of true hardship which is the
66
consequence of sin. Hardship which brings about the strengthening of one’s
bond with Allah and elevates one’s spiritual condition is not true hardship. It
is merely a resemblance or form of hardship. It increases one’s submission to
Allah Ta’ala. The Arifeen do perceive hardship. In fact their sense of
perception is sharper, but due to their gaze being on Allah Ta’ala their grief
and sorrow do not exceed the limits.
Difficulties are a means for the expiation of many sins. At times Allah Ta’ala
wishes to bestow a special rank of elevation to a servant, but the latter lacks
the ability to attain that lofty rank solely by virtue of his righteous deeds.
Allah Ta’ala then afflicts him with some hardship by virtue of which he
attains the desired lofty rank. It appears in the Hadith Shareef that on the
Day of Qiyaamat the people of ni’mat (fortune and happiness) will envy
those who had undergone museebat (hardship and sorrow). They will envy
them and wish:
“Would that our skins were cut to bits with

scissors so that today we could have attained the
ranks bestowed to the people of hard-ship.”
It is also narrated in the Hadith Shareef that he who takes his vengeance,
Allah Ta’ala assigns his affair to him (the one who took his own course). But
the one who adopts sabr, Allah Ta’ala extracts vengeance on his behalf.
Allah then sometimes awards him in this world, or may in Qiyaamat waive
punishment totally from him. Allah Ta’ala states in the Qur’aan Shareef:
“When a hardship afflicts you. say: innalillahi wa inna

ilayhi raji oon (Verily, we are for Allah and unto Him
will we return).”
The purport of this aayat is that one should engage in the thikr of
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at the time of difficulty and hardship. One should meditate the meaning of
this statement, that we are the exclusive property of Allah; we belong to Him
and He has the full right to utilize and dispose of His property as He deems
fit; we are therefore, contented with the decree of Allah.
When hardship afflicts one, firstly remember one’s sins. Such remembrance
of shortcomings and faults will fortify one against depression during the
hardship. One will then realize the correctness of the affliction and accept it
67
without complaint. One will regret and not complain. Secondly, meditate the
reward which Allah has promised for hardship. Remembering this reward
will lessen the grief and keep one resolute in the state of hardship. Never
complain nor entertain the impression that Allah Ta’ala has become
displeased with one. This impression is dangerous because it weakens the
bond with Allah Ta’ala and by degrees one’s relationship with Allah Ta’ala
becomes effaced.
Consider hardship as either a punishment or a trial and contemplate its

reward. At the time of hardship, the Shariat instructs sabr and firmness. For
every hardship, the compensation will be good. There is, most assuredly,
benefit in hardship, in this world as well as in the Akhirat although one may
not be able to understand the worldly benefit therein.
ACQUIRING SABR
Sabr is inculcated by weakening the desires of lust and emotion.
SHUKR
“Be grateful unto Me.”

“If happiness reaches him (the believer), he is
grateful.”
THE NATURE OF SHUKR

Accepting that all benefit is from the True Benefactor (Mun’im Haqeeqi),
the effect of which is to be happy with the Benefactor and be ever ready to
render obedience to Him, is the meaning of Shukr.
The meaning of Shukr envisages:
Acceptance of the fact that all benefit is from Allah, the True Benefactor
(Mun’im Haqeeqi). This acceptance induces:
1. Happiness with the Benefactor.
2. Eagerness to execute the commands of the Benefactor and to abstain

68
from his prohibitions. One should consider all benefit, goodness and
pleasant conditions as the bounties of Allah and regard these to be in
greater measure than what one really deserves. Praise is to be offered to
Allah and His bounties should not be employed in evil and sin. His
favours should be used in obtaining His Pleasure. This is the true
meaning of Shukr.
This conception of Shukr will be comprehended only when one has realized
the purpose underlying creation and the functions of the various aspects of
creation. For instance, the eye is a ni’mat of Allah Ta’ala. Its shukr is to
employ it correctly–to employ it in only lawful avenues, e.g. making tilaawat
of the Qur’aan Majeed, acquiring knowledge, studying the wonderful
creation of Allah so as to gain lesson and realize the greatness and splendour
of Allah Ta’ala, etc. The shukr of the eye further demands that it be
restrained from glancing at and viewing objects which Allah Ta’ala has
prohibited. Similarly, the ear is a ni’mat. Its shukr is to employ It correctly,
e.g. in listening to the thikr of Allah, to such talks which remind one of the
Aakhirat, and to prevent it from listening to evil, nonsensical and futile talk.
The tongue is a ni’mat. Its shukr is to employ it in thikr, in expressing hamd,
thanaa and shukr of Allah, and to restrain it from complaining in adversity
and from all evil generally. It is highly inappropriate and sinful for such a
worthless slave as man to complain about any condition which Allah Ta’ala,
the True King, has imposed on him. A word of shukr emanating from the
tongue is recorded as an act of obedience.
Mere expression of shukr with the tongue unaccompanied by the true state
of shukr of the heart is only lip-service. It is essential that along with verbal
expression of shukr, the heart should value and honour the ni’mat of The
Benefactor. Mere verbal shukr will be like the outer-casing, like the outer-
covering which is its external form. The rooh (soul and essence) of shukr is
that the honour and appreciation of the Mun’im (Benefactor) and the ni’mat
(the bounty) are ingrained in the heart.
The initial stage of shukr is at the intellectual level. In other words, it is the
correct understanding of the true meaning of shukr and the realization of the
honour of the Benefactor. The final stage of shukr is the manifestation of its
effect on one’s body, movements and all states. In short, all the beliefs, acts
of worship, mundane acts, moral and social life of the shaakir (the one who
is truly grateful to Allah) will be in conformity with the Shariat.
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ACQUIRING SHUKR
Shukr is acquired by contemplating the bounties of Allah Ta’ala. Every
ni’mat is to be related to Him. By degrees such meditation will imbue the
Love of Allah in the heart, the result of which will be the attainment of the
perfect stage of Shukr.
SIDQ
“Verily, the Mu’minoon (Believers) are those who
believe in Allah, and His Rasul. Thereafter they have
no doubt and they strive in the Path of Allah with their
wealth and their lives. Assuredly, they are the
Saadiqoon (the truthful ones).”
The following is narrated in the Hadith Shareef:

“Nabi (ρ) passed by Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu anhu)
while he was cursing some of his slaves.
Rasulullah (ρ) turned towards him and said.
‘People who curse and people who are truthful!”
Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu anhu) said: ‘I will not

repeat it.”
THE NATURE OF SIDQ

The nature of Sidq consists of developing a rank acquired until it attains
perfection.
The meaning of Sidq is firmness. It is for this reason that a Wali-e-Kaamil (a

saint who has attained spiritual perfection) is called a Siddeeque. In all
ahwaal (states), af’aal (acts) and aqwaal (statements) the Wali-e-Kaamil has
been well-grounded. He has realized the state of perfection. In the Shariar,
the conception of Sidq includes af’aal (actions), aqwaal (statements) and
ahwaal (states and conditions). Sidq in regard to statements is that talk
should be firm and true according to reality. One imbued with this quality is
called Saadiqul Aqwaal. Sidq in regard to actions is that every act be in
conformity with the Command of the Shariat and not in conflict with the
Shariat. One whose acts are at all times in conformity with the Shariat is
termed Saadiqul Af’aal. Sidq in regard to one’s state or condition is that all
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conditions should be in accordance with the Sunnat. Conditions which are in
conflict with the Sunnat are false. One whose states are in accordance with
the Sunnat is called Saadiqul Ahwaal.
The states (ahwaal) of Sidq are such that their effect is enduring. The
influence of the states of Sidq are lasting and dominant. They are not of a
temporary nature. This does not mean that such ahwaal exist over one
perpetually. It is the effect or influence (athr) of these states of Sidq which
lasts and does not disappear.
The summary of what has been explained is that one should develop the acts
of Ibaadat or obedience to the stage of perfection. For example, perform
Salaat in such a way that it could be described in the Shariat as Salaat-e-
Kaamilah (perfect Salaat), i.e. a Salaat performed observing all the external
rules and respects (aadab-e-zaahirah) and all the internal rules and respects
(aadaab-e-baatinah). The same should apply to all other acts of obedience
and Ibaadat. They should be rendered in the kaamil (perfect) way shown by
the Shariat. The adoption of this way is Sidq.
ACQUIRING SIDQ
Sidq is dependant upon the knowledge of the factors which produces
perfection. One has, therefore, to be alert at all times and compensate for
one’s shortcomings. An endeavour is to be made to rectify imperfectly
performed obligations. Constancy in improving and perfecting one’s acts
will ensure within a short while the perfect state of Sidq.
TAFWEEZ
“I assign my affair to Allah. Verily He sees all (His)
servants.”

“When you arise in the morning do not
contemplate in your heart about the evening, and
when it is evening do not contemplate about the
morning.”
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THE NATURE OF TAFWEEZ
Tafweez is to assign oneself to Allah Ta’ala. He may do with one as He
desires. One’s gaze and hope should be on none besides Allah. While
employing the means and the agencies, the result of all things should be left
to Allah Ta’ala.
Tafweez does not mean shunning the means and the agencies which Allah
Ta’ala has created for the acquisition and rendering of affairs. It merely
means that one’s confidence and hope should he on none besides Allah
Ta’ala. The result of the employment of the means and agencies should be
left to Allah Ta’ala. In affairs not related to means and agencies, tafweez
should be adopted from the very beginning. In such matters one should not
adopt tajweez (plan and scheme).
Tajwees (to plan, scheme and programme) is the cause for all worry, because
of it being expected that the operation of a project planned should proceed
along the set plan and programme arranged for it. If the result is contrary to
expectation, worry and frustration are the consequence. The schemes
initiated by man mostly consist of matters not within the control of his
volition. It is therefor puerile to scheme about things not within one’s
volition. It is for this reason that the Ahlullaah (the Auliyaa) shun tajweez.
They resign themselves entirely unto Allah Ta’ala and submit to the Pleasure
of Allah Ta’ala.
It is necessary to abandon one’s own scheme of operation and resign oneself

to Allah. This applies to even the development of one’s spiritual condition. In
trodding the spiritual path of development one should not initiate one’s own
scheme. Assign everything to Him. Bestowal or the elimination of haalaat
and kaifiyaat (spiritual conditions) should be assigned to Him. The seeker of
Allah should annihilate his tajweez in the Tajweez of Allah Ta’ala. In other
words, he has to adopt total and perfect abdiyat (submission and serfdom –
being a total slave of Allah Ta’ala).
THE WAY OF ACQUIRING TAFWEEZ

When being confronted with an event which is in conflict with one’s liking
then immediately think that it is an act of Allah and most assuredly there is
wisdom and goodness in it. In the beginning it will be difficult to acquire this
attitude. However, constant reflection produces the annihilation of effort and
then this attitude assumes a natural condition in the Ahlul-laah (the Auliyaa).
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RIDHAA (PLEASURE)

“Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with
Him.”

“Of the good fortune of man is his pleasure with
that which Allah has ordained for him.”
THE NATURE OF RIDHAA

This consists of total submission and pleasure with qadhaa (fate). One
should neither by word or deed object against fate.
Ridhaa develops to such a lofty degree that its domination permeates one’s
being. In this high state of Ridhaa hardship recedes and is not considered as
such. The state of ridhaa in which even pain is not felt is called ridhaa-e-
tab’i (natural ridhaa). The stare in which ridhaa prevails along with the
sensation of pain is called ridhaa-e-aqli (intellectual ridhaa).
The first state (ridhaa-e-rab’i) is a physical condition, the acquisition of

which is not incumbent. The second stare (ridhaa-e-aqli) is an intellectual
condition, the acquisition of which is incumbent.
Ridhaa with fate is commanded and exhorted so as to inculcate in one the

qualities of perseverance and contentment when afflicted by adversity and
hardship. When ridhaa has been inculcated adversity will be taken in its
stride with Contentment and without feeling any undue hardship. This is so
because the intelligence alerts one to the superior results of such ridhaa in
the face of adversity. The result of such ridhaa is future thawaab (reward).
This will be better understood by means of an illustration. A physician
prescribes a bitter remedy to a patient or may even insist on an operation.
The patient bears in mind his future recovery and health, and willingly
submits to the treatment. He is not only pleased with the physician bur feels
indebted to him.
Similarly he who firmly believes that Allah Ta’ala will grant thawaab for
every difficulty and sorrow experienced here, will most certainly be imbued
with pleasure and happiness. The thawaab for such ridhaa is of such a
nature that all difficulty wanes into nothingness. It is improper to desire
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anything contrary to that which Allah Ta’ala has willed and ordained for the
servant. When Allah Ta’ala considers adversity and difficulty appropriate
and advantageous for us, then we as His servants have no valid reason for
dissatisfaction and sorrow.
Whatever state Allah Ta’ala chooses for a servant, that is best for him. Man
seeing another in a more prosperous condition than himself yearns for such
prosperity and is not contented with his own lot. But, reflection will convince
one that the condition chosen for one by Allah Ta’ala is best.
It should be observed that making duaa is not contrary to ridhaa. Ahlullaah

(Saints of Allah) resort to duaa merely because of the Divine Command. In
this way they profess their abdiyat (state of total submission and slavery to
Allah). They therefore do no insist on the attainment of what is being
supplicated for. In all states and circumstances they are fully pleased with
the Choice of Allah Ta’ala whether their duaa is accepted or not. Non-
acceptance never induces in them dissatisfaction. This then is the sign of
Ridhaa.
ACQUISITION OF RIDHAA
Ridhaa is the effect of muhabbat (Love for Allah). There is therefore no
separate means of acquiring this quality. Ridhaa is a necessary corollary of
muhabbat.
FANAA (ANNIHILATION)
NATURE OF FANAA
The nature of fanaa consists of the elimination of evil deeds and lowly
attributes of the flesh. In other words, fanaa is abstention from sin and the
expulsion from the heart of all love other than the Divine Love; expulsion of
greed, lust, desire, vanity, show, etc. In the state of fanaa the reality of the
true and only relationship asserts itself in the mind. One realizes and feels
that the only real relationship is with Allah Ta’ala.
ACQUISITION OF FANAA
This lofty, state of fanaa is attainable by mujaahadah and Thikr in
abundance–Thikr by means of both the tongue and heart.
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FANAA-UL-FANAA (ANNIHILATION OF ANNIHILATION)
At times the Saalik becomes oblivious of his state of fanaa. This

unawareness is termed fanaa-ul-fanaa. This state is also known as baqaa
(perpetuity). In this state the realization of one’s condition of selflessness
disappears.
The annihilation of human qualities is also called qurb-e-nawaafil and the

annihilation of that (self ego) is described as qurb-e-faraaidh, i.e. the
disappearance of awareness of others.
The development of righteous deeds into one’s natural disposition and the
perfection of the lofty attributes (akhlaaq-e-hameedah) are also termed
baqaa.
The state of fanaa-ul-fanaa is realized by abundance of Thikr (remembrance

of Allah) and fikr (contemplation) done with constancy.
AKHLAAQ-E-RAZIELAH (THE LOWLY AND DESPICABLE

ATTRIBUTES)
HIRS (GREED)
“Do not raise your eyes towards the glitter of` the
worldly life which We have granted to various groups
among them (kuffaar).”

“The son of Aadam ages while two things of his
grow younger, viz., greed for wealth and greed
for (longer) life.”
THE NATURE OF HIRS

The engrossment of the heart with wealth, etc. is hirs. Hirs is the root of all
spiritual ailments. It is, therefore, proper to describe it as the mother of all
maladies. All mischief and strife are the consequences of this lowly attribute.
It is because of hirs that people plunder and usurp the rights of others. The
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basis of immorality is the lust for bestial pleasure. The root of all akhlaaq-e-
razielah is this very hire.
All the aarifeen (Auliyaa of Allah) maintain that the foundation of akhlaaq-
e-razielah is kibr (pride) and kibr is synonymous with the desire for fame.
Thus, the basis of kibr too is hirs.
If man possesses two valleys filled with gold and silver, by nature he will
desire a third. The more the demands of greed are satisfied, the greater will
be its demands. Greed is like one afflicted with rash. The more he scratches,
the worse the rash becomes. Allah Ta’ala says:
“What! Is there for man everything he desires?”
In other words, it is not possible for man to fulfil all his desires. It is for this
reason that the harees (the one who has greed) has no peace of mind.
Nothing besides soil (i.e. the grave) can satiate his greed. Before a wish can
attain fulfilment, another develops. When one is not contented with taqdeer,
one is smitten by a multitude of desires and hopes, the fulfilment of which is
most difficult. The result of non-fulfilment of desire is frustration and worry.
The harees inspite of perhaps possessing wealth in abundance and enjoying
luxury, is perpetually afflicted with frustration.
THE REMEDY
Reduce expenditure. This will diminish concern and yearning for more
earnings. Forget about the future and bear in mind that the harees always is
contemptible.
TAMA’ (COVETING-DESIRE)
“Follow not desire, for it will lead you astray, away
from the Path of Allah.”

“A weakling is one who follows his desire and
then has hopes on Allah (for reward).”
Desire means preference for things which conflict with the Shariah. The
highest degree of such desire is kufr and shirk. The lowest degree is
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diversion from perfect obedience. Straying from Siratul Mustaqeem (the
Straight Path) is common to all forms of tama’.
THE REMEDY
The remedy for tama’ is mujaahadah-- to accustom oneself to oppose the
desires of the lowly nafs so that the carnal and material desires of the lowly
nafs are subordinated to the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. Mujaahadah is to
exercise restraint on the demands of the nafs irrespective if such restraint is
simple or difficult.
GHUSSAH (ANGER)
“And those who swallow anger and those who forgive
people, Allah loves the righteous.”

“Do not become wrathful.”
“A powerful man is not one who defeats (another)

in physical combat. Verily, a powerful man is he
who controls his nafs at the time of anger.”
In another narration it appears that a strong man is he who controls anger. It

is essential to keep anger under control. One should never act spontaneously
in accordance with the dictates of anger. On the contrary, anger should be
made subservient to the instruction of the Shariah. It is natural to be aroused
in the state of anger. Such natural propensity is not rebukeable. But, Allah
Ta’ala has endowed man with volition (ikhtiyaar will-power). Anger has
therefore to be controlled since it is within the scope of man’s volition to do
so. Failure to exercise this volitional power is contrary to insaaniyat
(humanity).
There are many reasons for the inclusion of anger in the natural attributes of
man. Along with the quality of anger Allah Ta’ala has endowed man with the
ability to control such anger to ensure that the latter is not misappropriated
and unjustly employed.
Ghussah in itself comes into motion involuntarily. It is automatically

activated. But, acting in accordance with its demand is voluntary, hence
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refraining from it is likewise voluntary. The remedy for a volitional act (the
way of curbing it) is nothing other than the exercise of one’s volitional power
to bring about restraint and control. This is within one’s ability even if one
experiences a degree of difficulty in the exercise of such volition. Repeated
exercise of the volition of restraint weakens the demand of anger. In
consequence, refraining from anger becomes a relatively simple task.
The following narration appears in the hadith shareef:
“The qadhi should not decide between two

parties while in anger.”
The judge or the ruler is not permitted to issue a verdict while in anger, but
should postpone the trial or case for a later dare. The term, qaadhi in the
context of this Hadith applies to every person having authority over people.
The instructor, teacher and head of a family all fall within the purview of
this Hadith. They should not be hasty in meting our punishment to their
subordinates while in the state of anger.
Those in authority should remember that .Allah Ta’ala is the defender of the
rights of those who have no defender. Allah Ta’ala will demand from the
aggressor the rights of the oppressed. According to the Hadith Shareef, Allah
Ta’ala and Rasulullah (ρ) will claim from the tyrannical ruler the rights
which he usurped even from his non-Muslim subjects. It is therefore
imperative to exercise caution when punishing.
In cases of injustice executed in the state of anger, it is essential that the

aggressor, after his anger has subsided, publicly apologise and humble
himself in the presence of the one whom he has wronged. The aggressor
should personally apologise in profusion and seek the pardon of the one
whom he had wronged. This measure will restore the intelligence of the
aggressor to equilibrium. He will thus be prevented from the perpetration of
injustice at the behest of anger.
At all times refrain from haste. One has to strive greatly in opposing the
dictates of anger. Whenever one succumbs, resort to istighfaar and obtain
the pardon of the one whose rights have been violated. Recite:
ÇóÚõæúÐõ ÈöÇááåö ãöäó ÇáÔøóíúØóÇäö ÇáÑøó Ìöíúãö
when overtaken by anger: sit down if you happen to be standing; if you

happen to be sitting then lay down. Make wudhu with cold ware: or drink
78
cold water. Divert your attention by immediately engaging in some other
activity, especially reading which is very efficacious in curbing anger. If all
this fail to eliminate the anger, withdraw from the presence of the one who is
the target of your anger.
The Remedy
Remember that Allah Ta’ala has greater power and authority over you and
that you are also disobedient to Him. Should he also adopt the attitude of
Wrath with you, what will be your condition? Also reflect that nothing can
happen without the Will of Allah Ta’ala. Ponder then:
Of what worth am I? I am an absolute non-entity.

How can I then act in conflict with Allah Ta’ala?
DAROGH (FALSEHOOD)

“Refrain from false statements.”

“Make truth incumbent on you and beware of
falsehood.”
Falsehood is to speak contrary to facts. For a person to be regarded as a liar

it will suffice that he narrates every rumour without investigating whether it
is a fact or not. Rasulullah (ρ) ordered abstention from lies because
falsehood and immorality are complementary partners and both will be in
Jahannum. Nabi (ρ) said that false evidence is equivalent to shirk.
In a vision Rasulullah (ρ) was shown a man whose cheeks were being
repeatedly slit from ear to throat. The cheeks would heal immediately upon
having been slit and the process of slitting would be repeated. Upon
enquiring, Rasulullah (ρ) was informed by Jibra’eel (alayhis salaam) that the
one who was being thus punished was a liar and this punishment will
continue in the grave until Qiyaamah.
In another hadith it is narrated that a woman called her child. To entice the
child in coming to her she indicated to the child that if he came, she would
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give him something. Rasulullah (ρ) asked her that if the child came, what
would she give him? She replied that she would give dates. Rasulullah (ρ)
then commented that if she had no intention of giving the child anything, her
statement merely being to lure the child to her, then such statement is also a
lie.
THE REMEDY
When speaking, be careful. Do not speak without thinking. Ponder before
you speak and be firm in confronting and curbing the urge to speak what is
false. If falsehood was spoken then compensate this error by means of
istighfaar. Should any word contrary to the Shariah slip from your mouth,
resort to Taubah in abundance.
HASAD (JEALOUSY ENVY)

“(Say) I seek refuge with the Rabb of the morning from
the evil of the haasid (jealous person) when he
envies.”

“Do not be jealous among yourselves.”
To be displeased with another’s good position and to wish for its elimination
is hasad. Hasad has three stages.
1.The natural human quality. In this degree of hasad, man is excused and
is not at fault.
2.Acting according to the demands of hasad. In this degree of commission,

man is a sinner.
3.Opposing the demands of hasad. In this degree, man is laudable and will be
rewarded.
Generally the basis of hasad is takabbur (pride) and ghuroor (falsehood).

Without any valid reason man seeks to withhold the bounties of Allah Ta’ala.
He desires (at times consciously and at times subconsciously) that like
himself, Allah too should restrict His bounties. Hasad is a malady of the
heart. It is harmful to both one’s spiritual life and worldly life. The harm to
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man’s Deen (spiritual life) is the elimination of his good deeds and he
becomes the victim of Allah’s Wrath. Rasulullah (ρ) said:
“Jealousy devours good deeds like Fire devours

wood.”
The harm to his worldly life (dunyaa) is the frustration and worry which
perpetually afflicts the envious person. He is consumed by frustration caused
by hasad for another whose disgrace and fall he always anticipates. In this
way the haasid destroys his Aakhirat in addition to eliminating his worldly
comfort and peace of mind.
THE REMEDY
The disease of hasad is remedied by praising much the person against
whom jealousy is directed. Praise him no matter how difficult this may
seem. Honour him and meet him with respect and humility.
BUKHL (NIGGARDLINESS, STINGINESS)

“He who is stingy is in fact stingy because of his
nafs.”

“The miser is far from Allah, far from Jannat, far
from people and close to the Fire.”
Bukhl is to withhold spending when such spending is necessary according to

the Shariat and in order to be kind. Bukhl has two stages.
1.Contrary to the order of the Shariah. This stage is sinful.
2.Contrary to kindness (murrawwat). This degree of bukhl although not sinful

is nor good. Elimination of even this degree of bukhl is commendable and
meritorious.
According to the Hadith Shareef wealth spent to protect one’s honour is also
sadqah (charity). Bukhl is a severe malady, hence Rasulullah (ρ) exhorted.
“Save yourself from bukhl, for it has destroyed

81
nations before you.”
It does not, therefore, behove a Muslim to be miserly. In being stingy one is

paving the path to Jahannam. Bukhl in reality is the effect of love for wealth
which directs man’s attention to the world. The consequence of this is the
weakening of the bond of love with Allah Ta’ala. At the time of death the
miser looks on his wealth with regret and sorrow. He has to embark on his
journey into the Aakhirah reluctantly and forcibly because in him there is no
desire to meet Allah Ta’ala. According to the Hadith, the one who at death
has no desire to meet Allah Ta’ala is a Jahannami (one who will enter
Jahannam).
THE REMEDY
Remembrance of maut (death) in abundance expels the love of wealth from
the heart.
RIYAA (SHOW)
“They display to people (their acts of lbaadat).”

“Most certainly, even a little riyaa is shirk.”
Riyaa is the intention to enhance one’s dignity in the eyes of` the people by
means of acts of obedience to Allah Ta’ala. This attitude totally defeats the
purpose of Ibaadat. The purpose of Ibaadat is to gain the Pleasure of Allah
Ta’ala. Since show or display of Ibaadat involves division of purpose, riyaa
is termed shirk-e-asghar (the lesser shirk). By means of riyaa one splits the
purpose of Ibaadat by endeavouring to attain both public acclaim as well as
the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. In this regard the Qur’aan Shareef says:
“He who hopes for the meeting with His Rabb should
practise righteousness and associate none with the
Ibaadat of his Rabb.”
The Mufassireen have explained that the meaning of “and associate none
with the Ibaadat of his Rabb” is “to refrain from riyaa”. Qadhi Thanaa-ullah
explained this aayat in Tafseerul Mazhari as follows:
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“He (the worshipper) does not exhibit his good

acts nor does he seek reward or praise for his
virtuous deeds from anyone besides Allah Ta’ala.”
It is also mentioned in the Hadith Shareef that on the Day of Qiyaamah

when Allah Ta’ala will be compensating people for their deeds, the people of
riyaa will be commanded to proceed for reward to those for whom they had
intended the exhibition of their acts of Ibaadat. In a lengthy hadith it is said
that on the Day of Qiyaamah three persons will be ushered into the presence
of Allah Ta’ala. These three will be an Aalim, a generous person and a
Mujaahid who had waged jihaad. These three will proffer their respective
acts of Ibaadat to Allah Ta’ala Who will say to them:
“You have rendered these deeds for riyaa and

acclaim. You rendered these acts so that people
may say: ‘You are a great Aalim, a generous
person and a great mujaahid.’ You have already
obtained what you had sought. People have
already praised you on earth. You have therefore
no right here. Enter the Fire.”
Rasulullah (ρ) also said that a deed contaminated by even an atom of riyaa
is unacceptable to Allah Ta’ala. Heed this and reflect! In view of the
aforegoing, never intend to display any act nor intend to conceal it. Concern
yourself with the act itself, -intending thereby only the Pleasure of Allah
Ta’ala. Ignore all diversionary waswasah (stray thoughts and whisperings of
the nafs and shaitaan) which enter your mind. You may at times be assaulted
by the thought that your act is to obtain the acclaim of the people. Ignore
this waswasah which in fact is a ploy of shaitaan or the nafs engineered to
side-track you from executing the righteous act.
Prior to rendering a good deed, reflect and ascertain your motive. What is
your intention for doing the act? Is it to seek the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala or
the pleasure of others? If you discern any of the contamination in your
niyyat, then purify your intention. Divest it of the contamination and firmly
resolve to render the deed for the Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala.
THE REMEDY
The cure for riyaa is the expulsion from the heart of the desire for fame and
name. Riyaa in fact is a branch of hubb-e-jah (love for name, fame and
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glory). Execute your acts of Ibaadat in solitude. This Ibaadat in solitude
refers to such Ibaadat which does not have to be performed in jamaat.
However, regarding congregational Ibaadar the elimination of hubb-e-jah
will be sufficient to combat riyaa in this avenue. Another efficacious remedy
regarding riyaa developing in an act of Ibaadat is to render that specific act
of Ibaadat in abundance. Within a short while the riyaa will be dispelled and
by force of habit the Ibaadat will become sincere.
UJUB (VANITY)

“(Remember the time) when your great number
pleased you (instilling vanity in you).”

“And the destroyers are: desires which are
followed; stinginess which is obeyed; and a man
being pleased with himself, and this. (last trait) is
the worse of them (of the things which spiritually
wrought destruction to one).”
Ujub is to attribute one’s excellence to oneself while being oblivious of the

possibility of such excellences being snatched away by Allah Ta’ala. Ujub is
a concealed and subtle trick of the nafs which always desires to occupy a
distinguished rank (above others). The nafs obtains pleasure in this desire (of
ujub). Allah Ta’ala detests one who considers himself to he distinguished,
laudable and the receptacle of excellences.
Delight over the bounties granted by Allah Ta’ala is not ujub. Such true
delight is not unrestricted and does not produce vanity since the fear of the
elimination of the bounties is ever present in the heart. One realizes that the
excellence or bounty which one has gained is purely a gift from Allah Ta’ala
Who has awarded it because of some act or knowledge (which is also the
favour of Allah), and one further realizes that Allah Ta’ala has the full power
of snatching away the bounty at any time He desires. This experience of
delight is therefore not ujub. On the other hand, a person suffering from the
ailment of ujub becomes neglectful and fails to recognize that the bounty in
his possession is in fact a gift from Allah Ta’ala. One afflicted with ujub
considers himself to be entitled to the bounties.
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Ujub resembles takabbur (pride) in all aspects, save one, viz., ujub does not
necessarily imply others to be one’s inferiors. A person involved in the
disease of ujub considers himself to be of a lofty rank without necessarily
regarding another to be his inferior. According to the Hadith Shareef the man
of ujub strutting about in arrogance will meet Allah Ta’ala on the Day of
Qiyaamah in the state of severe wrath.
THE REMEDY
Always regard excellences and virtues which one possesses to be the
bestowal of Allah Ta’ala. Contemplate on the power of Allah and fear the
possibility of the gifts being snatches away. Ponder about your faults, both
internal and external so that the notion of perfection and holiness is
annihilated.
TAKABBUR (PRIDE)
“Verily, Allah does not love the proud ones.”

“He who has a grain of pride in his heart will nor
enter Jannat.”
Takabbur is to consider oneself superior to others in attributes of excellence.

There are many kinds of takabbur. Most kinds are subtle, concealed and
difficult to detect. It is only the thorough gaze of the Shaikh-e-Kaamil which
can discern such hidden forms of takabbur. In this matter even the Ulama-e-
Zaahir (those Ulama who concern themselves with only the external Law of
the Shariah) are constrained to follow an expert in the Path of Tasawwuf.
In a nutshell takabbur is to voluntarily and consciously regard oneself

superior to others in religious or mundane excellences in a way which
engenders contempt in the heart for others. This is the reality of takab
bur and this is haraam. Takabbur consists of two ingredients, viz.,
1.The feeling of superiority–considering oneself to be great.
2.Contempt for others.
Takabbur not induced voluntarily, but entering the heart involuntarily is not
sinful. Such non-volitional pride is merely the external dimension or form of
takabbur. Up to this stage takabbur is not sinful. But when one voluntarily
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entertains the feeling of pride which had initially crept in involuntarily, then
it will be sinful takabbur. In this case the mere form of takabbur is
transformed into the reality of takabbur.
Where the condition of contempt for others is non-existent, takbbur–will not

be applicable. Mere belief in superiority and inferiority greatness and
smallness–is not takabbur. For example: an old man regarding an infant to
be small without the notion of contempt for it. But, the one who intentionally
considers himself better than others, becomes arrogant. His nafs swells up
with pride, the consequences of which then manifest themselves. Examples
of pride are: to regard others with contempt; to take offence when others do
not greet one first; to be offended if others do not offer you respect; to be
annoyed when someone admonishes you; refusal to concede the truth even
after having realized it. May Allah Ta’ala keep us under His Protection and
save us from takabbur, for indeed, it is the severest of maladies. It is the root
of all spiritual ailments.
It was takabbur which made shaitaan a deviate. The Hadith Shareef

therefore sounds dire warnings in regard to takabbur. Allah Ta’ala has
warned that the abode of the proud ones will indeed be vile. Pride is the
exclusive prerogative of Allah Ta’ala. Allah Ta’ala will destroy all those who
desire to participate in this exclusive Attribute of greatness. Rasulullah (ρ)
said that the mutakabbireen (the proud ones) will be encased in trunks of fire
of Jahannam.
THE REMEDY
This malady is remedies by reflecting on the Splendour, Glory and Majesty
of Allah Ta’ala. This reflection will produce in one a realization of one’s own
lowly position. Your own excellences will then recede into nothingness. Also,
humble yourself in the presence of those whom you regard as your inferior.
Be respectful to them so that you become imbued with humility.
HIQD (MALICE, AVARICE)

“Be forgiving; command righteousness and dissociate
from the ignorant ones.”
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“Do not have malice for one another.”
Keenah is the condition of malice which asserts itself when one lacks the
power to take revenge in the state of anger. Keenah is the seed of many evils.
When anger has not been satisfied, its vapours engulf the heart producing a
seething effect which boils the heart. This smoke and feeling root the malice
in the heart. This results in frustration.
Keenah or hiqd is an intentional condition. It is nor the feeling of mere

dislike which arises involuntarily and unintentionally. In malice one
entertains evil in the heart for another by design and at the same time one is
concerned about schemes to harm the one at whom the malice is directed, if
intention and desire to harm are absent, it will not be malice, but will be
known as inqibaadh which is not a sinful state as this is a natural condition.
Rasulullah (ρ) said that two persons having malice for one another are not
forgiven. The reference to this malice is malice based on injustice and
wrong. A hatred for the sake of Deen is not within the purview of the malice
described here. Such hatred (for the sake of the Deen) is meritorious since
the Hadith commands love for the sake of Allah and hatred for the sake of
Allah.
THE REMEDY
The cure for malice is to overlook the fault of the one for whom hiqd is
entertained and to associate with him irrespective of the difficulty one may
experience in the adoption of such a big-hearted attitude.
HUBB-E-JAH (LOVE FOR FAME)

“That (abode) which is Daarul Aakhirah, We will
reserve it for those who do not desire greatness on
earth nor (do they desire) strife. And, the ultimate
success is for the pious.”

Two hungry wolves let loose in a flock of sheep do
not cause as much harm as the harm to a man’s
Deen wrought by his greed for wealth and fame.”
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The desire in one that others honour, respect and be submissive to one is
termed hubb-e-jah. It is difficult to diagnose the malady of love for fame. It
is only in the event of an incident in which one is not honoured that this
disease becomes detectable,
Hubb-e-jah is a quality which lies in one’s imagination, hence its nature is

transitory. It is extremely flimsy in that it is dependent or, thoughts of others,
for jah entails honour of one by others. The thoughts of others thus form the
basis of jah. If others divert their thoughts, one’s jah is eliminated. Hence, he
who desires to be considered famous and honourable has to rely on the
thoughts of others–thoughts which are not within the control of the one who
desires the jah. But, inspite of hubb-e-jah being so flimsy in nature and
temporary, man hankers after it.
Only such jah is detestable which has been acquired by one’s desire and
pursuit. Such jah is a calamity which destroys one’s worldly life as well as
one’s life of the Hereafter. When man sees that the world acclaims him, he is
overtaken by pride and vanity. These diseases finally destroy him. His Deen
is thus destroyed. Many people have fallen into this trap and were utterly
annihilated.
A famous person has many envious enemies who engage in conspiracies to

harm and eliminate him. This then is the harm to one’s worldly life. Thus,
both Deen and Dunya suffer in the wake of jah.
On the other hand, jah which Allah Ta’ala bestows upon man without him
requesting it, is a ni’mat (bounty). Like man stands in need of wealth to a
certain degree, so does he stand in need of jah to a certain degree. Such
limited jah enables him to remain in safety and be protected against injustice
and oppression. Such safety enables him to engage in the ibaadat of Allah
Ta’ala without fear and in peace. This amount of jah is therefore not
harmful.
THE REMEDY
Meditate on the futility of hubb-e-jah. Neither the one who honours nor the
one who is honoured will remain. All will perish. It is therefore childish to be
delighted over such a transitory and illusionary attribute. Contemplating in
this way will eliminate this malady.
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HUBB-E-DUNYA (LOVE OF THE WORLD)
“The worldly life is nothing but substance of
deception.”

“The world is the prison of the Mu’min and the
paradise of the Kaafir.”
All things which give pleasure here to the nafs without being of any merit in
the Aakhirah is termed dunya. We are afflicted with a number of spiritual
ailments all having their origin in the love of the world. About this disease,
hubb-e-dunya, Rasulullah (ρ) said:
“Love of the world is the root of all evil.”
If this root ailment is treated and cured, all other maladies flowing from it
will also disappear. A man overwhelmed by hubb-e-dunya has no concern
and time for the Aakhirah. Such a person having no care for the Aakhirah
will not be bothered about righteous deeds nor will he abstain from evil. The
one in whom there is hubb-e-dunya has very little fikr for the Deen. Increase
in the degree of hubb-e-dunya brings about a corresponding decrease in fikr
(concern) for the Deen. Total hubb-e-dunya entails total lack of fikr for the
Deen. This is manifest in the kuffaar.
Dunya does not mean wealth and family. Dunya is the intentional and
voluntary adoption of anything evil which causes one to become forgetful of
Allah Ta’ala irrespective of what that thing may be. Thus, acquisition of
wealth and other material means is not evil, but hubb-e-dunya (love for such
material objects) is evil. Wealth is like the water in the ocean and the heart of
man is like the ship sailing in the ocean. Water, while it facilitates the
movement of the ship can also bring about its sinking. As long as the water
remains outside the ship, it aids its sailing. But entry of the water into the
ship causes it to sink. Similar is the case of wealth. Wealth aids man as long
as it remains outside his heart. However, if its love enters the heart it will
bring about his destruction.
The Hadith Shareef states:
“Halaal wealth is a benefit to a pious man.”
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He benefits because he (a pious man) spends his wealth in meritorious ways.
On the contrary, if love of wealth captures the heart of man, he suppresses
the rights of others. When the treasures of the Persian Empire were ushered
into the presence of Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu), he recited the
Qur’aanic aayat:
“The love of pleasures has been adorned for

mankind.”
He then commented: “O Allah! It is evident that the desire for pleasure is

inherent in us. Its total elimination is not the aim. But, we supplicate that
wealth aids us in the attainment of Your Love.”
The dunya (or the world) which has been criticized is like a serpent whose
skin is colourful and most beautiful. But its poison is fatal. Intelligent people
maintain a distance from such danger and are not lured by the externally
adorned skin. But a little child unaware of the danger of a snake is attracted
by the external beauty and is prepared to grab hold of the snake. We are
comparable to the little child. We are attracted to the world by its external
beauty and adornment without being aware of its dangers. Men of
intelligence and experience do not incline towards the world.
People are generally deceived and overwhelmed by the glitter of the world
because they are not aware of its reality. Should the reality of the world be
revealed, they would become utterly disillusioned and detest it. The Hadith
Shareef states:
“If the value of the world was equal to that of the

wing of a mosquito by Allah, He would not have
allowed any kaafir even a drink of water from it.”
In the Eyes of Allah Ta’ala the world has no value. It is a detestable object.
He therefore prefers it for His enemies. A man aware of the realities if
fearful of an object detested by Allah Ta’ala. Rasulullah (ρ) described the
world in the following similitude:
“What relationship with the world have I? My

similitude is like a traveller on a mount, halting in
the shade of a tree (for a short while only to
leave it again, and proceed along the sojourn).”
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The traveller rests a while in the shade and then moves on again.
THE REMEDY
Remember maut (death) in abundance and do not involve yourself in distant
and remote hopes. The pursuit of distant schemes and material enterprises
should be shunned. In this way the love of the world will be eliminated from
the heart.
This elimination is in fact the stage at the end of Sulook (the Path along
which the Mureed travels in his spiritual journey). One has, in fact, to
become imbued with the spirit and quality spoken of in the following Hadith:
“Die before your death.”
This Hadith means that one has to inculcate the attribute of the dead in one
even before death, and that attribute is the lack of worldly love. There are
three ways by which one can attain proximity with Allah Ta’ala, These are
explained in detail as follows.
1.Atwal (the longest way).
2.Ausat (the middle way).
3.Aqal wa Aqrab !the shortest and nearest way).
THE ATWAL WAY

This consists of observing in abundance Saum, Salaat, Qiraa’t, Hajj, Jihaad’
etc. This is the way of a class of Auliyaa known as the Akhyaar.
THE AUSAT WAY

In addition to the above acts of Ibaadat is engagement in Mujaahadah,
Riyaadhat, elimination of Akhlaaq-e-Zameemah and the acquisition of
Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah, The majority of men travelling along the Path of
Sulook become Waasil (attain the goal of Divine Proximity) via this second
way.
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THE AQAL WA AQRAB WAY
This is the way of Ishq (Love). Riyaadhat (spiritual exercises) and mingling
with people are suffocating to the Saalik (spiritual traveller) along this path.
Thikr, Fikr, Shukr and Shauq are the intellectual occupations of the traveller
plodding along the Path of Ishq. The traveller along this Road become
Waasil by this method. Purification of the nafs and adornment of the heart
and soul are realized by the method of Love. They have no interest in kashf
(inspirational revelation of the Auliyaa) and karaamat (miracles of the
Auliyaa). They are totally immersed in:
“Die before your death.”
This third way is the way of the class of Auliyaa known as the Shataariyah.
DYING BEFORE DEATH

At the time of death, the dying man possesses certain attributes, the
inculcation of which is exhorted by the Hadith: “Die before your death.”
These attributes which are in the perfect state in the dying man are:
Taubah (repentance), zuhd, (abstention), qanaa’at (contentment), tawakkaul

(trust in Allah), azlat (solitude), tawajjuh ilal-laah (attention directed to
Allah Ta’ala), sabr (patience), ridhaa (pleased with Allah), thikr
(remembrance of Allah) and muraaqabah (meditation).
Among the Shataariyah the salient feature is Muraaqaba.
One has to inculcate the above qualities which overtake a dying person to a
high degree. Taubah, i.e. repentance to emerge from all evil as is the position
at the time of maut; Zuhd, i.e. to shun the world and everything in it as is the
case at maut; Tawakkul, i.e. to shun all abnormal worldly agencies as is the
case at maut; Azlat, i.e. to sever all ties with creation as is the case at maut;
Qanaa’at, i.e. abstention from lowly desires–to be contented–as is the case at
maut; Tawajjuh ilal-laah, i.e. to rivet one’s attention towards only Allah
Ta’ala as is the case at maut; Sabr, i.e. to shun pleasures as is the case at
maut; Ridhaa, i.e. to abstain from pleasing the nafs, and to be pleased with
Allah and to submit in entirety to Allah Ta’ala as is the case at maut. This is
the conception of “Die before your death.”
One has to transform one’s condition so as to be imbued with the conception

of “death before death”. In this earthly life, the body is on earth, but the rooh
should be directed to the Aakhirah, and be in communion with Allah Ta’ala.
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Possession of even the kingdom of the earth should not affect one’s heart.
The heart at all times should be empty of the world. The sign of this lofty
state having settled over one is total abstention from everything branded as
evil by the Shariah. The mind, tongue and the whole body have to be sealed
from evil. The heart is to be emptied of all things other than Allah Ta’ala. It
has to be adorned with Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah.
A man dwelling in this lofty state of purity and communion with Allah
Ta’ala is always aloof from gatherings of futility. Whatever diverts the mind
of the Seeker of Allah from the remembrance of Allah is futility and
nonsensical. The Seeker refrains from association with men of baatil
(falsehood and corruption). One who does not pursue the Path in quest of
Allah, is in fact a man of baatil.
O beloved one! This then is the meaning of “die before your death” stated by
Rasulullah (ρ). This is the way of Rasulullah (ρ). This is the life which
Rasulullah (ρ) desired for his Ummah.
DOMINATION OF AKHLAAQ-E-HAMEEDAH
The sign of Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah having gained dominance and one having
gained proficiency in these lofty attributes is the ability to employ correctly
and naturally these attributes with the utmost of ease. Once one has reached
this stage, it is evidence of the fact that the lofty attributes have become
firmly grounded in one.
AL-KHAWATIR (THOUGHTS)
Thoughts which cross the heart of man are called khawaatir (singular
khaatir). Such thoughts are at times virtuous and at times evil. These
thoughts which occur to man emanate from different sources. Virtue is
inspired into the heart sometimes by Allah Ta’ala, sometimes by an Angel
whose name is Mulhim and sometimes virtue is whispered into the heart by
even shaitaan. Evil assaulting the heart sometimes emanates from shaitaan,
sometimes from the nafs and at times from Allah Ta’ala.
Pious inspirations from Allah Ta’ala serve the purpose of honouring one or
for establishing some proof. The evil khaatir which comes from Allah Ta’ala
appears as a test and to impose some labour and effort on one. From the
Angel Mulhim emanates always only goodness since this is his function. His
function is to guide towards virtue.
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Khair (virtue or the good thought) emerging from shaitaan is deception. He
casts his trickery in the form of a good khaatir, but in reality it is evil
designed to divert one from a greater virtue by involving one in a lesser
virtue. The purpose of evil emanating from shaitaan is to deceive and
disgrace man. Evil emanating from the nafs i to mislead man and to prevent
him from the truth. The good which issues from the nafs is extremely
negligible. It is in fact comparable to shaitaan.
THE DISTINGUISHING SIGNS OF THE EVIL FROM ALLAH, THE

NAFS AND SHAITAAN
If the evil khaatir is from Allah Ta’ala it will be recognized from its firmness
and one’s total inability to combat it. One will discover that one is unable to
ward it off. If the sharr which afflicts the heart is firm and retains constancy
being of a solid unchanging condition which renders the nafs extremely
restless in the desire to commit the evil while at the same time all effort and
means of combating the evil are rendered useless in the face of the onslaught
of the sharr, then such an evil khaatir is from Allah Ta’ala. The remedy for
such a khaatir is nothing but to petition Allah Ta’ala, seeking His aid and
protection, humbling oneself and shedding tears of concern and regret. This
is a trial from Allah Ta’ala. Only His aid will be of any good.
If the khaatir of sharr is not as pressing and severe as is described above, but
remains static then it is from the nafs.
If a khaatir of sharr assaults the heart after having sinned and it occurs
vigorously then such sharr is from Allah Ta’ala and its purpose is to
disgrace the sinner and act as a punishment for having sinned. If after having
sinned, the thought of sharr occurs to one, but not vigorously, it enters feebly
then such sharr is from shaitaan providing that it disappears or is weakened
by engagement in Thikr. In this regard Rasulullah (ρ) said:
“Verily, shaitaan clings onto the heart of man.

When man remembers Allah, shaitaan retreats
(from the heart). When man becomes neglectful
of Allah’s Thikr, shaitaan asserts himself with his
whisperings (into the heart of man).”
If the khaatir of sharr which assaulted the heart after having sinned does not
disappear nor is weakened by thikr, then such khaatir is directed by the nafs.
Shaitaan was the victim of such direction by the nafs. When he proclaimed
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his greatness on the occasion of his refusal to make the sajdah commanded
for Aadam (alayhis salaam). Neither could his Thikr ward off the evil
khaatir of his nafs nor did the exhortation of Allah Ta’ala benefit him. The
cause of this rebellion of shaitaan’s nafs was the absence of abdiyat.
(Abdiyat is the state of total submission–being a slave to another.) Shaitaan
further lacked humility, hence nothing was of a benefit for him. He
possessed no true insight, hence his obedience and his ibaadat were mere
bodily exercises shorn of the true insight which is in the heart of Imaan. This
condition of shaitaan became manifest with his rebellion. If he had possessed
the insight of Imaan he would not have engaged in disputation but would
have submitted and would have derived pleasure from such submission and
true obedience. Argumentation, disputation and doubt always occur prior to
mushaahadah (true, sure and established knowledge).
If a khatir of virtue settles on the heart with resoluteness and one is unable to
attain peace of mind without enacting the virtue, then such good thought is
from Allah Ta’ala: It will also be from Allah if the khaatir of khair (virtue)
occurs after mujaahadah and ibaadat or even if such khaatir of virtue
happens to be related to the principles and acts of the baatin (the esoteric
dimension of man that pertaining to his rooh). The Qur’aan-e-Kareem says:
“And, those who strive in our way, We will most

certainly show them our Ways.”
In other words, Allah Ta’ala will direct them towards His Proximity,
Thawaab and Jannat. This aayat is proof for what has been elaborated in
regard to the khair (virtue) which emanates from Allah Ta’ala.
If the khaatir of khair entering the heart is not as resolute as explained above
or it occurs initially without one having resorted to mujaahadalr or the khair
relates to the details of the external acts of Ibaadat and righteousness, then
such inspiration is from the Angel Mulhim.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE IF THE KHAATIR OF KHAIR IS FROM

ALLAH OR SHAITAAN
A khaatir of khair having the following ingredients is from shaitaan:

•It produces total delight-delight unchecked by khauf (fear).
•It demands haste. The haste it wants is, unchecked
•It pertains to something, the consequences of which are not at all considered.
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The following five occasions are excluded from this rule:
1.Marriage of a virgin.
2.Payment of the debt.
3.Burial of the dead.
4.Feeding the visitor.
5.Repenting for sins.
If the khaatir of khair is accompanied by delight tempered with khauf and

one is concerned about the consequences of the act if it is translated into
practice, then such thought of virtue is from Allah Ta’ala. Ir has also been
said that such a khaatir of khair is from the Angel Mulhim.
N.B. Khauf in the context of this discussion means concern and anxiety to
render the virtue fully, and perfectly, observing all the required rules and
adaab pertaining to that act, the thought of which has occurred. At the same
time one is anxious in regard to the acceptance of the deed–will Allah Ta’ala
accept it or reject it? The meaning of being concerned about the
consequences is in relation to guidance, virtue and hope for thawaab in the
Aakhirah. There should be no other motive.
Mulhim is the name of an angel who occupies the right side of the heart
while Waswaas is the name of a shaitaan who occupies the left side of the
heart of man. The Hadith Shareef explains this:
“When man is born Allah Ta’ala creates an angel

and a shaitaan along with him. The shaitaan
makes his abode on the left side of mans’ heart
and the angel settles on the right side. Both then
call towards man.”
Some effort, concern and Thikr (among which the recitation of Laa haulaa
walaa quw-wate is very efficacious) will suffice to ward off the khawaatir of
shaitaan. Allah Ta’ala states:
“Verily, the scheme of shaitaan is weak.”
The best remedy for the waswasah (thoughts and whisperings) of shaitaan is
to totally ignore these. How will one know that one is ignoring such thoughts
of shaitaan? The recognition of this is that one will not be unduly bothered
or vexed when such thoughts assault one. The state of indifference which
existed prior to the entry of satanic waswasah should also prevail after these
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thoughts have entered the heart. In fact, the occurrence of satanic waswasah
is proof of one’s Imaan. Such assaults should therefore be a cause of
happiness and not sorrow. When the Sahaabah-e-Kiraam explained their
concern and vexation about these satanic thoughts which afflicted them,
“This is clear evidence of Imaan.”
A thief makes an attempt only where there is something of value.
Regarding the desires of the nafs, great effort and great struggle are required
in this sphere. Subjugation of the desires of the nafs is achieved only after
struggle. The need to confront the nafs with resolution, wrath and
determination is very important. There are three ways of combating the
desires of the nafs. These are:
1.Preventing it from lust by denying it its nutrition. Its desires should not
be fulfilled. Much resistance has to be offered to the nafs. When a
wild horse is denied food or its food is reduced it becomes
submissive. It will become subdued and the lustful demands of the
nafs will be ended.
2.The imposition of Ibaadat on the nafs also weakens its demands. An ass
becomes weak and submissive if along with denying it food it is
loaded with a heavy load. Similarly, the nafs will be transformed
from a state of restlessness to tranquillity by imposing on it such
Ibaadat which is beneficial.
3.Seeking the aid of Allah Ta’ala. Allah Azza Wa Jal says in the Qur’aan
Shareef:
“Verily the nafs is a great commander of evil, but (the

nafs) upon whom Allah is merciful (such a nafs will
remain obedient).”
Adoption of these three methods with constancy will, Insha’Allah, render the
nafs obedient and submissive. Man will then be safe from its evil
promptings. Even after having gained control of the nafs, one has to be alert
at all times. Ghaflat (negligence) is extremely dangerous. Ghaflat will result
in the nafs once again asserting its domination and control over man.
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THE NATURE OF NAFS
In man there exists the capacity for desire. This capacity is termed the nafs.
This capacity refers to both virtue and evil. It desires goodness as well as
evil. In its development the nafs passes through three stages, viz.,
Ammaarah, Law-waamah and Mut’mainnah.
AMMAARAH
In this stage the nafs is overwhelming in the desire of evil and it experiences
no regret for its evil commissions and omissions. This lowly stage is also
termed Hawaa-e-Nafs.
LAW-WAAMAH
In this stage the nafs suffers remorse and regret when afflicted by evil
desires.
MUT-MAINNAH
In this stage the nafs is overwhelmingly in the desire of virtue.
THE TYPES OF THOUGHTS AND THEIR HUKM (EFFECT)

According to the Hadith Shareef, Allah Ta’ala overlooks thoughts as long as
these are not given practical expression. There are five stages in thought,
viz., Haajis, E;haatir, Hadeethun Nafs, Humm and Azm.
HAAJIS
Haajis is a thought which in the beginning produces no reaction in the nafs.
If one is fortunate to eliminate the thought in the haajis stage, the other four
stages will not become applicable.
KHAATIR
If one fail; to eliminate the haajis thought and it establishes its presence in
the nafs without the latter (i.e. the nafs) plotting to give it practical
expression, it (the thought) enters the Khaatir stage.
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HADEETHUN NAFS
This stage consists of the nafs scheming regarding the enaction or negation
of that which has established itself in the nafs. The nafs ruminates on the
plot of doing or riot doing the act without giving preference to any side of
action. The thought is now known as Hadeethun Nafs.
The hukm (effect) of these three stages is no punishment if the thought is evil
and no reward if t he thought is good. Punishment and reward do not apply
to the stages of Haajis, Khaatir and Hadeethun Nafs.
HUMM
When the nafs after having reflected about action or inaction regarding the
deed it had schemed, inclines partially to one side (i.e. any side whether to
commit or shun the act), the thought is known as Humm. Thought in this
stage merits thawaab if virtuous and punishment if evil.
AZM
When the thought finally asserts itself and a decision is made to give it
practical expression, it is known as Azm. Thawaab and punishment are
applicable to this stage as well.
THE SIGNS OF THE ACQUISITION OF NISBAT WITH ALLAH

TA’ALA
NISBAT IMA’ALLAAH
Nisbat literally means relationship or connection. A nisbat or connection is a
two-way process. It has two ends. In our context Nisbat Ma’Allah
(Relationship with Allah) means Allah’s connection with the bandah
(servant) and the bandah’s connection with Allah Ta’ala.
The attainment of Nisbat Ma’Allah is also referred to as Husool Ilal-laah

(Attained towards Allah). The relationship of Allah with the bandah is
Allah’s Pleasure with His servant. The relationship of the bandah with Allah
means constancy of the servant in taa’at (obedience) and involvement in
abundant thikr with perfect consciousness.
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The sign of the existence of the bandah’s relationship with Allah is his
restlessness for engagement in obedience and Ibaadat as well as total
abhorrence for all forms–both zaahir and baatin–of sin and disobedience. In
addition to this is the bandah’s continuous striving to follow the Sunnah.
N.B. Among the various kinds of Ibaadat, Salaat is an all-embracing form of

worship. If executed properly, observing all its rules, conditions and respects
then no other specific form of riyaadhat (spiritual exercise) is necessary for
spiritual progress and the achievement of Nisbat Ma’Allah. Salaat contains
Thikr, Shaghl, Muraaqabah, Auraad, e.g. Tasbeeh, Istighfaar, Durood etc.
The Thikr of Salaat is the tilaawat of the Qur’aan in it. This is in fact the
highest form of Thikr. Shaghl in Salaat is the pre-occupation of the mind
which consists of focussing the attention on the spot of Sajdah during
Qiyaam; on the feet during, Ruku; on the bridge of the nose during Sajdah;
on the lap in Jalsah, and on the shoulders when making Salaam.
Muraaqabah in Salaat is one’s contemplation at the time of Takbeer-e-
Tahrimah and keeping in mind for the whole duration of Salaat that “Allah is
watching me.” This condition of total contemplation is called Ihsaan. All
Mujaahadah and Riyadhat are undertaken to achieve this condition of
Ihsaan. Regarding the condition of Ihsaan, the Hadith Shareef says that
Jibra’eel (alayhis salaam) asked Rasulullah (ρ):
“What is Ihsaan ?”
Rasulullah (ρ) replied:

“(Ihsaan is) that you worship Allah as if you are
seeing Him and if you cannot see Him (then
know) that, verily, He sees you.”
In brief the Path of Sulook and its final destination, the stage of Ihsaan, is
attainable by fulfilling Salaat with all its Aadaab, Mustahabbaat and
Shuroot. In this way the effects of the Lataa-ife Sittah (the six spiritual
faculties) will become manifest.
LATAA-IF-SITTAH AND THEIR EFFECTS

The six Lateefah (spiritual faculties) in man are the Nafs, Qalb, Rooh, Sirr,
Khafi and Akhfaa. Their effects are as follows:
1.NAFS: (Nafs here refers to Nafs-e-Mutmainnah): Its nourishment is
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abstention from sin.
2.QALB: Its nourishment is Thikr.
3.ROOH: Its nourishment is Hudhoori (constantly alert and in the

presence of Allah).
4.SIRR: The nourishment of Sirr is the unveiling of realities.
5.KHAFI: The nourishment of Khafi is Shuhood (to behold the truth and
to contemplate it), and Fanaa (to be annihilated or totally absorbed
in Tauheed).
6.AKHFAA: The nourishment of Akhfaa is Fanaa-ul-Fanaa (i.e. to Be

unaware of even one’s stage of annihilation). Regarding this faculty there
exists difference of opinion among the authorities.
The manifestation of the affects of these six faculties assume the following
form in Salaat.
There are seven degrees in Salaat, viz., Salaat-e-Tun, Salaat-e-Nafs, Salaat-

e-Qalb, Salaat-e-Rooh, Salaat-e-Sirr, Salaat-e-Khafi and Salaat-e-Akhfaa .
The effect of Salaat-e-Tan is prohibition of sin; that of Salaat-e-Nafs is

prevention of relationships other than the relationship of Allah; of Salaat-e-
Valb is negatior of negligence; of Salaat-e-Rooh is prevention of the gaze
from looking at others; of Salaat-e-Sirr prevention of the mind from
wandering and turning to others besides Allah; of Salaat-e-Khafi is man’s
achieving the degree of spiritual development where reality becomes
manifest to him; and, the effect of Salaat-e-Akhfaa is true communion with
Allah Ta’ala. The experience of this stage is Mi’raaj .
CONDITIONS FOR IJAAZAT

When the Shaikh discerns in a Mureed a constant yearning for islaah
(spiritual reformation) and steadfastness in this purpose and the Mureed
along the Path of Sulook reaches the junction leading up to Allah Ta’ala, he
(the Shaikh) bestows the Mantle of Khilaafat-e-Bai’t on the Mureed who is
now appointed as the Khalifah of the Shaikh.
The Mureed attains this lofty rank after continuous and regular association
and communication, etc. with his Shaikh.
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THE JOURNEY OF SULOOK
The Journey of Sulook comprises two sojourns:
1.Ser Ilallaah (Journey towards Allah).
2.Ser Fil-laah (Journey in Allah).
SER ILAL-LAAH
This journey consists of two fundamental aspects, viz.,
a. Purification of the nafs from nafsaani ailments known as Akhlaaq-e-

Razielah. Reference to this is made in the Qur’aanic Aayat :
“Verily, he has attained success, who has purified his

nafs.”
b. Adornment of the heart with Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah. This is called

Tahliyah and also Tajalliyah. In Sulook this acquisition is described as
Maqaamaat (stages).
When the Mureed becomes grounded in the acquisition of Maqaamaat, in the

purification of the nafs and when he has achieved proficiency in the ways
and means of acquiring lofty attributes and eradicating lower qualities, then
upon him reaching the stage of Ser Ilal-laah the Shaikh confers on him the
Mantle of Khilaafat and grants him ijaazat (permission) to initiate others
into the Path of Sulook.
SER FIL-LAAH
Upon having attained the stage of Ser Ilal-laah, a special celestial glitter
(jalaa) and light (noor) permeate the heart. The heart then is at all times
dissociated from all things other than, Allah. The heart is now truly
engrossed with Allah Ta’ala. In this high stage of spiritual development,
matters pertaining to Thaat (The Being of Allah), Sifaat (Attributes of
Allah), Af’aal (Acts of Allah), Haqaaiq (Realities) as well as relationships
between Allah and His servants become manifest. This then is termed Ser
Fil-laah.
In the realm of Ser Fil-Laah are no limits. Progress is infinite. Progress is

proportional and continuous in relation to one’s ability, engrossment with
Allah Ta’ala and casting aside all motives irrespective of such motives
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pertaining to this world or the hereafter. When one has attained this rank,
one attributes nothing to oneself.
The Shaikh appoints the Mureed as Majaaz-e-Bai’t (authorizes him to

initiate mureeds and to attend to their spiritual affairs) after he (the Mureed)
has attained the stage of Ser Ilal-laah. Sometimes the Shaikh delays this
appointment until the Mureed has reached the stage of Ser Fil-laah. This
appointment by the Shaikh of the Mureed at different stages of development
is a matter confined entirely to the condition of the Mureed and the
inclination (thauq) of the Shaikh.
SEARCHING FOR ANOTHER SHAIKH

There are various reasons which induce a Mureed to search for a Shaikh
other than the one who is his Shaikh. Among these reasons are:
1.The Mureed discovers that his first Shaikh does not adhere to the
Shariah. The Shaikh indulges in bid’ah or always commits kabeerah
(major) sins.
2.The mureed has no congeniality (Munaasabat) with the first Shaikh

notwithstanding the fist Shaikh being a strict adherent of the Shariah
and a follower of the Sunnah.
3.The demise of the first Shaikh. In this event it will suffice if the Mureed
turns to another Shaikh to perfect his islaah (reformation) without him even
becoming his formal mureed. The mureed may, however, also complete his
islaah by another Shaikh along with entering into Bai’t with him (the
Shaikh).
Our precedent in this aspect is Haahrat Haaji Imdaadullah Saheb (May

Allah brighten his grave). Hadhrat Haaji Imdaadulah first was Majaaz-e-
Bai’t in the Naqshabandigah Order. When his Shaikh died he made the bai’t
to Hadhrat Mianju Noor Muhammad Saheb (May Allah brighten his grave)
in the Chishtiyyah Order. Haaji Imdaadullah did so because he had not yet
attained satiation in the Spiritual Sojourn. Hadhrat Mianju also conferred
the Mantle of Majaaz-e-Bai’t to Haaji Imdaadullah Saheb. Today, both Arab
and Ajam have benefited from the fuyoodh (spiritual effulgence) and
barakaat (spiritual fortune) of Haaji
Imdaadullah Saheb.
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It is viral to remember that after having accepted another Shaikh, the
Mureed should never be disrespectful to his former Shaikh, neither in word
or deed nor in his absence or presence. This applies even if the former
Shaikh has happened to stray from the Shariah. Any such disrespect will
prove calamitous for the Mureed.
MAWAANI’ (IMPEDIMENTS)
All sin and connections other than those with Allah Ta’ala are the bandits
along the Path of Sulook, However, there are several things from which the
Saalik has to abstain. This is vital. If the Saalik does not rigorously abstain
from these aspects, his efforts and struggles will be utterly wasted. These
fatal impediments strewn along the Path of spiritual progress are:
1.Opposition to the Sunnah:
Alas! In the present age, customs and innovations are in great prevalence.
Nowadays such innovatory customs are being regarded as Tasawwuf.
“Soon there will dawn an age over people when

there will remain of Islam nothing but its name,
and of the Qur’aan there will remain nothing but
its script.”
2.Inadvertently becoming the mureed of an irreligious peer and in spite of the
error in this bai’t, clinging to him life-long. When the peer himself is not
Waasil, how will he cause the mureed to become Waasil?
3.Association with females and lads and casting lustful glances at them. It is
narrated in Jawaahir-e-Ghaibi that a man once while making Tawaaf of
Baitullaah was uttering.
“O Allah! I seek Your protection from Yourself.”
Someone enquired from him the meaning of this. He replied:

“Once I cast a lustful glance at a handsome lad
when lo, a hand from the unseen (ghaib)
appeared and slapped me causing the of my
eye.”
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Yusuf Bin Husain said:
“I have observed that the calamities of the Sufis

are in association with young lads, in
companionship with impious persons and
inclining tenderly towards females.”
Lust for lads is worse than lust for women. Nowadays such unnatural
practices of lust with lads are very prevalent. The act of sodomy is in the
severest degree of prohibition, hence Rasulullah (ρ) said:
“I greatly fear for my people the practice of the

nation of Loot.”
In another Hadith, Rasulullah (ρ) said: “The curses of the Angels of the
sewn heavens descend on seven types of sinners. The intensity of this la’nat
(curse) is sufficient to destroy the mal’oon (the accursed).
(The first of the seven types) is one who practised sodomy.”
Nabi-e-Karem (ρ) repeated the above warning thrice. In another Hadith it

was said:
“Allah Ta’ala abhors looking at a man who

commits sodomy.”
Some people although not committing acts of lust are involved in the malady
of gazing with lust. It .should be borne in mind that the eyes also commit
zina (fornication). Few people exercise caution in this respect despite the
fact that staring with lust is a stepping-stone to fornication. According to the
principle of Fiqh, the means and agencies of haraam are likewise haraam. So
remember this, and understand it well.
4.Evils of the tongue.

Speech in abundance and claiming excellence and virtues as well as
speaking disrespectfully of the Shariah or Allah Ta’ala are among the
greatest of impediments along this Path. Some jaahil (ignorant) peers
indulge in such evil use of the tongue.
5.To engage in mujaahadah of one’s own making in addition to the ta’leem

(instruction) of the Shaikh. Such unauthorized prescription by the mureed is
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detrimental. Within a short while, the Mureed will become frustrated and
discard even the little which he was instructed to do by the Shaikh. This
calamity has befallen many a mureed. It was because of this pitfall that
Rasulullah (ρ) instructed the adoption of only that much a’maal (righteous
practices) which will nor weary one down producing frustration. Rasulullah
(ρ) said in this regard that Allah Ta’ala will not “weary” and be
“frustrated” as long as you do not become weary and frustrated.
6.Haste in expecting the fruits of mujaahadah. This is also a great obstacle.

The Mureed sometimes in his haste and impatience feels that even after
having made much mujaahadah for a while, he has not derived the fruits
thereof. The consequence of this attitude is that the Mureed either loses
confidence in his Shaikh or he neglects his mujaahadah. This is indeed a
great calamity which can befall the Mureed. It is imperative that the Mureed
realizes that nothing is achieved overnight. The selfsame person at one stage
was an infant. Only after a considerable lapse of time did he attain
youthood. At first he was ignorant and only after some time had passed did
he become a learned man. Similar then is the case of spiritual progress along
the spiritual journey.
In short, haste and expectation (for the effects of mujaahadah to become

manifest) are by inplication demands which the Mureed puts to his Shaikh.
Such demands are very harmful. This type of mureed does not remain
contented with his Shaikh. He turns to all and sundry for remedies. He is like
a vagrant along this Path and he in consequence loses the grace and favour
of the Shaikh. The Mureed in the final analysis loses in entirety what he had
initially desired so impatiently. His frustration and worry multiply.
Outwardly and inwardly he becomes engulfed by harm.
7.Introducing defect in one’s confidence and love for the Shaikh. Of greater
calamity than even this, is to hurt the feelings of the Sheikh and to harm him.
Such action and attitude bring about the total destruction of munaasabat
(congeniality) between the Shaikh and the Mureed.
THE MEANING OF MUNAASABAT

Munaasabat or congeniality is the relationship of affinity which the Mureed
has with his Shaikh. This bond should be of such a degree that the Mureed
entertains no rejection or dislike for any statement, act or condition of the
Shaikh. This should be a physical condition of attachment in one’s
disposition. However, if one’s munaasabat has not reached this degree of
physical congeniality, it is necessary that it exists at least on the intellectual
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plane (Aqli Munaasabat). The Mureed should find all acts and statements of
the Shaikh likeable and acceptable.
This Munaasabat is conditional for Bai’t. Great care has therefore to be

adopted in this matter. Minus such Munaasabat, all devotional practices
such as mujaahadah, riyaadhat, muraaqabah and mukaashafah will come to
nought. They will be devoid of benefit. In the absence of a tab’I (natural and
physical) munaasabat, the mureed should inculcate an Aqli Munaasabat.
Spiritual benefit to the Mureed rests on the existence of
munaasabat.
In view of the overriding importance of munaasabat, one should not enter

into the Bai’t allegiance if such munaasabat is lacking. The Bai’t will prove
of great benefit after love and munaasabat have been cultivated.
THE HARMS OF UMUR-E-GHAIR IKHTIYAARIYAH

Umur-e-ghair ikhtiyaariyah are qualities and conditions which are beyond
one’s volitional control. These are natural states and attributes in man and
their cultivation and eradication are not within the purview of his power.
Among the impediments along the Path of Sulook are another two ailments
which are so widespread that almost all Mureeds are involved therein. Even
some Ulama are involved in these.
1. The one obstacle is the Mureed’s concern to acquire attributes and states
not within his volitional control. Among the Umur-e-ghair ikhtiyaariyah
are thauq (joy), shauq (eagerness), istighraaq (absorption), lazzat
(pleasure), yaksoo-ee (solitude) in disposition), daf-e-khatraat (the
ability to ward off thought), sorish (pangs of spiritual love), injithaab (a
condition similar to istighraaq), etc. These states and attributes are
erroneously considered to be the effects of thikr, shaghl and mujaahadah.
The non-acquisition of these umur-e-ghair-ikhtiyaariyah is considered to
be the consequence of having been deprived of the effects of effort, Bur,
this too is erroneous.
2. The other obstacle is the Mureed’s effort to eliminate certain of the

Umur-e-ghair ikhtiyaariyah, e.g. the state of qabdh (a state of spiritual
contraction), abundance of khatraat, inability to concentrate, natural
love for wealth, dominance of natural anger, absence of tenderness,
inability to shed tears, the assertion of worldly sorrow or fear, etc.
Sometimes the Mureed regards these natural and non-volitional
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attributes and conditions to be detrimental to his progress along the Path
of Sulook. He labours under the notion that because of the presence of
such umur-e-ghair ikhtiyaariyah he will not be able to attain his goal.
Failure to eradicate these non volitional aspects is erroneously
considered to be a cause for drifting away from Allah Ta’ala.
The abovementioned are two obstacles which generally occur to the

travellers along this Path of Sulook. The common factor between there two
obstacles is the pursuit of things beyond one’s control. Both acquisition and
elimination of Umur-e-ghair ikhtiyaariyah are not within the control of man.
One suffers adversely by pursuing such non-volitional aspects. One harmful
effect of such wasteful pursuit is the implied confrontation with the
declaration of Allah Ta’ala:
“Allah does not impose on one (anything), but that

which one can bear.”
Since these aspects are non-volitional, their acquisition and elimination are
beyond man’s control and capacity. Allah Ta’ala has therefore not imposed
such acquisition and elimination on the Mureed. But when the Saalik
considers such acquisition and elimination necess’ary for the attainment of
his goal, he by implication believes that this attitude of his is commanded
and imperative. But as said earlier, the Shariah has commanded one only in
regard to that which one is capable of doing. The Saalik’s attitude implies
that capability is not conditional for the executing of a task. This then is his
confrontation with the Divine declaration:
“Allah does not impose on a person (anything), but

that which he is capable of doing.”
Failure by the Mureed to achieve the desired acquisition and elimination of

Umur-e·-ghair ikhtiyaariyah produces progressive frustration, the
consequences being:
•Physical illness may develop as a result of constant worry. This in turn

results in the omission of many devotional practices.
•Frustration sometimes results in ill-temper. Others are then

inconvenienced by one’s display of ill-manners.
•Preponderance of worry and frustration at times causes one to neglect

the rights of one’s family as well as those of others. Such neglect
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becomes sinful.
•In cases this frustration reaches such proportions which drive the
mureed to suicide.. Thus, both his dunya and his aakhirah are
destroyed.
•Sometimes the frustration causes the mureed to lose hope to the extent
that he considers acts of obedience and righteousness to be useless.
In consequence he ends all his righteous activities and reaches and
abrupt halt in his spiritual affairs.
•Sometimes he becomes disillusioned with his Shaikh, losing confidence

in him. He then labours under the notion that his Shaikh is not
aware of the Path of Sulook.
•Sometimes the frustration becomes so extreme that one becomes displeased

with Allah Ta’ala. attributing one’s failure to Allah Ta’ala. One then finds
fault with the promises which Allah Ta’ala has made in the Qur’aan Shareef
regarding His Aid to the one who strives along His Path. May Allah Ta’ala
protect us from such a disastrous end.
THE DEVOTIONAL PRACTICES OF THE SAALIK

The ma’mulaat or devotional practices which the Saalik has to adopt are
vastly beneficial in this Path. These ma’mulaat are listed hereunder.
TAHAJJUD: The Saalik should perform four, eight or twelve rak’ats in the
latter part of the night. If he is unable to do so in the latter part of the night
then as the last resort he should perform at least four raka’ts (with the
intention of Tahajjud) at the time of Ishaa.
THE THIRTEEN TASBEEH: Either at the time of Tahajjud or after Ishaa

Salaat, the following should be recited:
áÂ Çöáóåó ÇöáÇøó Çááå
a.Laa ilaaha il lal laah (Two Tasbeehs) i.e. 200 times). This is called
the Tasbeeh of Nafl (negative) and Ithbaat (positive).
b.Il-lal laahu (Four Tasberhs–400 times) ÇöáÇøó Çááåõ

c.Allaahu Allaah (Six Tasbeehs–600 times) Çóááåõ Çóááåõ
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d.Allaahu (One Tasbeeh - 100 times) Çóááåõ
Between the Sunnat and Fardh of Fajr, 41 times Surah Faatifiah, beginning
each time with Bismillaah.
AFTER FAJR SALAAT: Surah Yaaseen Shareef, some tilaawat of the

Qur’aan Shareef, at ]east a quarter Juz; those who have memorized Surahs
should recite all such Surahs (if they are unable to make tilaawat); whenever
opportunity affords, one Manzil of Munaajaat-e-Maqbool together with
Hizbul Jiryaa; and 41 times the following:
This should also be recited at least three times before making Thikr.
ISHRAAQ: Perform two or four raka’ts Ishraaq Salaat.
CHAASHT: Immediately after Ishraaq or a bit later perform two, four or

six raka’ts.
AFTER ZUHR: Recite Surah Innaa Fatahnaa laka (Surah Fatah) and make
Thikr of the word, Ç ááå as much as time permits, or recite Çó ááåõ
Çóááå (Allaahu Allah) five hundred times.
AFTER ASR: Recite Surah Amma Yatasaa aloon (Surah Nabaa) and one
Tasbeeh, the Aayat:
AFTER MAGHRIB: Four raka’ts Salaatul Awwaabeen or six raka’ts. If

time permits make Thikr of Allaah Çóááå. Recite Surah Waaqiah.
AFTER ISHAA: Recite Surah Mulk and Surah Alif Laam Meem Sajdah.
Recite Istighfaar in the following way:
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Recite the above Istighfaar 100 times or 70 times. If one feels very sleepy or
tired then recite it 41 times.
MUHAASABAH: i.e. to take stock of one’s deeds:

At the time of going to bed reflect about your deeds. When recalling a
righteous act, be thankful (make shukr), and when recalling a sinful act, be
regretful. Remind your nafs of the rebuke and punishment of Allah Ta’ala
for sins and pledge not to approach sin in the future. During the day recall
this pledge.
CONSTANT THIKR: While reclining, sitting, walking, etc., always recite

the Kalimah. Recite
áÂ Çöáóåó ÇöáÇøó Çááå
constantly and whenever the breadth breaks, add:

ãõÍóãøóÏñ ÑøóÓõæúáõ Ç ááåö Õóáøóì Ç ááåõ ÊóÚóÇ áì Úóáóíúåö
æóÓóáøóãú
After every Salaat recite Aayatul Kursi and Tasbeeh Faatimah, i.e. Insert
Arabic ÓõÈúÍóÇäó Çááå 33 times; ÇóáúÍóãúÏõ Çááå 33 times and Çóááå
ÇóßúÈóÑõ 34 times. If time allows, recite the following Tasbeeh a hundred
times after Zuhr, Maghrib and Ishaa:
ÓõÈúÍóÇäó Çááå æó ÇóáúÍóãúÏõ Çááå æó áÂ Çöáóåó ÇöáÇøó Çááåõ æó

Çóááå ÇóßúÈóÑõ
Adopt the recitation of the following formula which should be recited

often at times available to the Saalik:
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If one has the opportunity it is more efficacious and beneficial to fix one or
two times daily for the Thikr of Isme Zaat instead of spreading the Thikr
over a period or time. If the Isme Zaat is recited six or twelve thousand
times, its beneficial effect will expedited.
THE EXERCISE OF PAAS ANFAAS

For presence of mind, increase in eagerness and improvement of memory the
exercise known as Paas Anfaas is most efficacious while it is the simplest of
exercises (ashghaal). This exercise is a breathing exercise and its method is
as follows:
Take a deep breadth. While inhaling concentrate on the word Çóááå. Exhale
vigorously. While exhaling concentrate on åõæú. Do this repeatedly.
In the beginning practise this exercise in solitude and do it until one feels a
warm sensation. Thereafter, this exercise should be carried out at all times
while walking, sitting, etc. In all states endeavour to establish this
concentration. In the beginning some effort is required. However, after a
short while one’s breathing will be so conditioned that it (the breathing) will
be along this pattern without one consciously resorting to it.
NAFL FASTING
Nafl fasts should be kept according to one’s ability. For example: one should
fast on the 13th, 14th and 15th (known as Ayyaam-e-Beedh) of every Islamic
month; the six fasts during the month of Shawwaal; the nine fasts of Zil-Hajj
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or only on the Day of Arafah (9th Zil-Hajj); the two days of Muharram (9th
and 10th or 10th and 11th), and the 15th of Sha’baan.
BOOKS TO BE STUDIED
For the improvement and checking of one’s knowledge and condition it is
essential that certain authentic Islamic literature be studied. A list of books
recommended will be given hereunder. Each book should be read three times.
The Saalik should measure his condition on the standards of the books. One
should then with sincerity and honesty notify one’s Shaikh of one’s
conditions–the condition which prevailed prior to the study of the books and
the condition after having studied the books. The Shaikh should be regularly
informed of the rise and fall, the progress and retrogress in one’s spiritual
condition in the existence and disappearance of the various attributes of
virtue and vice. This will enable the Shaikh to properly diagnose the
Mureed’s condition and prescribe accurate remedies. Furthermore, the
Mureed should be diligent and regular in carrying out the instructions of the
Shaikh. The Mureed has pledged that he will not conceal from the Shaikh
any khatrah which crosses the heart or any condition of the rooh. The
Mureed in making bai’t to the Shaikh pledges that he will accept and follow
his instruction without quibbling and without finding fault in it. He will
follow the Shaikh with firm conviction and the fullest of confidence.
The following is a list of books which the Mureed should study. Qasdus
Sabeel, Aadaabush Shaikh wal Mureed, Usulul Wusul, Huququl Islam,
Furu-ul Imaan, Safaa-ee Ma’malaat, Hayatul Muslimeen, Aadaabul
Ma’aasharat, Shauq-e-Watan, Jazaa-ul A’maal, Tabligh-e-Deen, Ta’leem-e-
Deen, Beheshti Zewer, Behesti Gohar, Malfuzaat of Hadhrat Maulana
Ashraf Ali Thanvi (rahmatullah alayh) known as Husnul Azees, Nashrut
Teeb, Islaahul Khiyaal and Shariat and Tasawwuf.
N.B. Regarding the book, Tabligh-e-Deen by Imaam Ghazaali (rahmatullah

alayh), one should not practise the instructions given in the book in regard to
food.
NASEEHAT SPECIALLY FOR THOSE INVOLVED IN THIKR AND

SHAGHL
Those trodding the Path of Sulook should endeavour to follow the method of
Rasulullah (ρ) in everything. Following the Sunnah creates much Noor in
the heart. Have patience when anyone says something which displeases you.
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Don’t say anything in haste, especially while in anger. Be very careful in the
state of anger. Never consider yourself to be perfect or one who possesses
excellences. Ponder before speaking. When you are convinced that in what
you intend speaking is no harm and in it is some benefit or need regarding
the world or Deen, then only proclaim it. Never speak ill of even an evil
person. Do not listen to evil. Do not criticize any dervish who may be
overwhelmed by some ecstatic condition and may be saying something which
in your opinion seems to be in conflict with the Deen. Never despise any
Muslim even if he happens to be a sinner. Never yearn nor have greed for
wealth and honour. Do not make an occupation of ta’weez and talisman, for
the general public will overwhelm you (by making demands and requests for
ta’weez). As far as is possible remain in the company of those who engage in
Thikr. Such association creates Noor, courage and love in the heart.
Do not expand much worldly affairs. Do not meet people unnecessarily.

When necessity compels you to meet others, meet them kindly and display
good manners. As soon as the need has been fulfilled withdraw from
company. Remain aloof especially from acquaintances, Search for the
companionship of the people of Allah (the pious and saintly ones) or meet
with such persons who are not well-known to you. Harm from such people is
slight.
If same spiritual condition occurs in your heart or some amazing knowledge

enters the heart, inform your Shaikh. Do not request your Shaikh for some
specific shaghl (devotional practice). Do not inform anyone besides your
Shaikh of the effect Thikr produces in you.
Do not be deceiving nor beat about the bush when you have realized your
error. Confess immediately. In all circumstances have trust in Allah and
present your needs to Him only. Request Allah to grant you steadfastness on
the Deen.
IMPORTANT ADVICE FOR THE SAALIK
1. The first step of the Mureed in the Path of Sulook is Sidq orbsincerity so
that the structure can be erected on a proper foundation. The Mashaa-
ikh have said that people have been deprived of Wusool (gaining Diving
Proximity) because they have destroyed the Usool (foundations). Thus,
the first step is the rectification of belief which exists between Allah and
man. Such rectification is obligatory. Belief has necessarily to be free of
doubt, suspicion, error, innovation and should be established by means
114
of absolute proofs.
2. Once the Mureed has solidified his belief with Allah Ta’ala, then it
devolves upon him to acquire a sufficient amount of knowledge of the
Shariah. Such knowledge may be acquired either academically or by
enquiring from some Aalim. This is necessary so that one’s duties and
obligations be correctly discharged. When confronted by different
verdicts of the Fuqahaa, adopt the one in which there is precaution.
Always resolve to remain aloof from disputation.
3. It is then essential that the Mureed acquire moral character from some
Shaikh. If he has no Ustaad, never will he attain success.
4. When he resolves to enter into the Path of Sulook, then after rendering
what has been explained above, it is incumbent upon him to seek
forgiveness from Allah Ta’ala for all sins. He has to abstain from all sin,
be it zaahiri or baatini and be it sagheerah or kabeerah. Firstly, he must
make his peace with those who have rights over him. The Road of
Sulook will not open up for the Saalik who has failed to make his peace
with the Ahl-e-Muyooq (people who have rights over him).
5. Thereafter he should endeavour to reduce his relationships and worldy

acticities because the edifice of Sulook is reared on the peace of the
heart. When intending to emerge from relationships, begin with
emergence from wealth, for wealth is such an object which diverts one
from Allah Ta’ala and inclines one to it. There has never been a Mureed
who having entered this Path with worldly associations, remained
steadfast. On the contrary, his worldly encumbrances diverted him,
separated him from the Path and restored him to former connections
N.B. The meaning of wealth here refers to such wealth which is outside the
bounds of the Shariah as well as such wealth in which one is engrossed more
than necessary.
6. After emerging from wealth it is incumbent to emerge from jah (name

and fame), for jah is a great obstacle along this Path. Nothing will the
Mureed gain until acceptance and rejection of him by others do not seem
equal. The greatest harm for the Mureed is the desire that people honour
and respect him. Jail is a fatal poison for the Mureed.
7. When the Mureed has emerged from maal (wealth) and jah (fame), it is
then incumbent on him to make a firm pledge to Allah Ta’ala that he will
115
not oppose any of the advices of his Shaikh. Opposition to the Shaikh is
extremely harmful. Among the conditions of this pledge is that the
Mureed does not entertain any objection regarding his Shaikh even in his
heart.
8. It is then incumbent upon him to conceal his secrets, not revealing it to

even his closest associates. But he should not conceal from his Shaikh.
If any Mureed conceals even the slightest of his condition, then indeed,
he has abused the right of suhbat (companionship) of his Shaikh. If the
Mureed realizes, either by himself or by having been reminded by the
Shaikh, that he has opposed the Shaikh in anything, he should
immediately confess his error to the Shaikh and submit happily to any
punishment the Shaikh may prescribe. It is not proper for the Shaikh to
overlook the faults of the Mureed. If the Sheikh does so, he will be
guilty of destroying the huqooq(rights) of Allah Ta’ala. Overlooking
faults here means to refrain from calling the attention of the Mureed to
such faults. However, there is no harm in the Shaikh forgiving the
Mureed and not punishing him when he (Shaikh) has hope of reforming
the Mureed without meting out punishment.
9. As long as the Mureed has not renounced all associations it is not

permissible for the Shaikh to prescribe for him any of the special
formula of Thikr. It is incumbent upon the Shaikh to first put the
Mureed to test. After having tested the Mureed and when the Shaikh’s
heart bears testimony in regard to the firmness of the Mureed’s
resolution, the Shaikh should stipulate the condition that the Mureed will
resign with pleasure to the variety of circumstances produced by fate
(Qadhaa) in this Path of Sulook. The Shaikh must take a pledge from
the Mureed that he will not turn his face away from this Path regardless
of whatever overtakes him, whether it be harm, disgrace, poverty,
sickness, pain, etc. Furthermore, the Mureed has to pledge that he will
not incline towards the ease advocated by the heart nor will he search for
easy ways out at the time of hunger and need. He will nor adopt physical
comfort nor will laxity become his way. Concession (rukhsat) and laxity
(kasl) in this context refer to those prescribed by indolence or one’s
personal opinion. Such concessions and laxity are reprehensible.
However, concessions advocated by the Shariah or adopted on the
instruction of the Shaikh are not reprehensible.
10. It is extremely harmful for the Mureed to sit in the gatherings of the
Fuqaraa and Ashaab-e-Tareeq in the initial stages. However, if some
Mureed has indulged in this error then he should adopt the
116
following method and attitude:
He should respect the Shuyookh (plural of Shaikh) and be of service to

them. He should desist from contradicting them and he should act in a way
which will give them comfort. He should refrain from any attitude which will
create a barrier in the heart of the Shaikh for him. In the association with
Fuyaraa it is incumbent to give preference to them and not to consider
oneself a greater claimant to any right. Consider the right of every one in the
group of Fuqaraa to be binding on you. Do not consider that you have any
right over any of them. It is incumbent that the Mureed does nor oppose any
among the group. If the Mureed discovers that he (i.e. the Mureed himself) is
correct, then he should maintain silence. This does not mean association in
the baatil (falsehood) of others. It merely means, maintenance of silence
after proclaiming the truth and not indulging in disputation. In disputation is
the destruction of rime and the clouding of the heart. Do not permit such
differences to effect your other social affairs.
A Mureed suffering from the habit of excessive laughter, obstinacy) and

arguing will attain no progress in this Path.
11. External abundance of auraad (specific forms of Thikr) is riot among

the etiquettes (aadaab) of the Mureed. On the contrary, this group (of
Saalikeen) is ever engaged in eliminating from them khatraat (stray and
evil thoughts and diversions) and negligence of the heart. Their
occupation is purification of character and not abundance of practices.
Faraa-idh and Sunan-e-Muakkadah are incumbent on them. They adhere
to these rigidly. The heart remaining in a permanent state of Thikr (Thikr
Qalbi) is superior than abundance of supererogatory acts of worship
(Nafl).
12. After the Mureed has established in himself permanence of Thikr (the
heart and tongue perpetually engaging in Thikr) and he has accorded
solitude preference over publicit4, he may experience certain
supernatural occurrences while sleeping or while awake or in a condition
between sleep and awakefulness. For example: he may hear a
supernatural voice or he may experience the revelation of some
metaphysical reality. If this happens, the Mureed should not pay any
attention to it nor should he attach any importance to such events. He
should not await or remain in expectation of similar experiences because
all such events are diversionary. They divert the Mureed’s attention from
Allah Ta’ala. However, it is imperative to notify the Shaikh of all such
occurrences and experiences. Relating this to the Shaikh will free the
117
heart from the encumbrance of such experiences.
It is incumbent upon the Shaikh to guard the secrets of the Mureed. The
Shaikh shall derogate the importance of such super-natural experiences. In
other words, he will explain their insignificance to the Mureed because all
such events are trials.
Contentment and pleasure with these supernatural experiences are in fact

deception. The Shaikh should, therefore, alert and warn the Mureed about
the danger of focussing the attention on such insignificant events. The
Shaikh should encourage the Mureed to aspire for heights far loftier than
such experiences.
13. Among the ahkaam (rules) of the Mureed is that he migrate to a place
where he can be in the association of a Shaikh who happens to be a
guide for mureedeen of the age. Such migration is necessary if the
Mureed finds no such qualified Shaikh in the place of his residence. The
Mureed should then remain in attendance to the Shaikh and not depart
until such time that he obtains the permission of the Shaikh.
14. The Mureed should not entertain the idea that the Shaikh is ma’soom
(sinless). However, he should hold the Shaikh in high esteem and if
occasionally the Mureed witnesses any transgression by the Shaikh, he
(Mureed) should not sever his ties with the Shaikh on this account.
However, should the Shaikh perpetrate acts of transgression in
abundance, the Mureed should end his ties with the Shaikh politely,
honourably and with respect. The Shaikh should also not command the
Mureed to do such acts which constitute transgression (in the Shariah).
15. Among the gravest of calamities and misfortunes in this Path is

companionship with young lads. All the Mashaa’ikh unanimously assert
that the one who has become involved in such association (with lads),
has in fact been disgraced by Allah Ta’ala.
16. Among the calamities for a Mureed is subtle and concealed hasad (envy)
in his nafs for brothers along the Path. He should not envy any of his
contemporaries in the Path if they have attained a distinguished rank
while he himself has been deprived thereof. He should understand that
all affairs have already been predetermined.
17. Among the aadaab of the Mureed is that he should not aspire for
leadership nor should he desire that anyone becomes his mureed or
118
student. If the Mureed, prior to the annihilation of the flesh and
elimination of’ the calamities, entertains such desires, then in fact he is
deprived of reality. His advice and instruction will not benefit anyone.
18. The structure of this Tareeq (Path) revolves on the protection of the
Aadaab of the Shariah, on guarding oneself against haraam and
mushtabah (doubtful things), on guarding the senses against the
prohibitions of the Shariah, preventing one’s moments from negligence
and connecting them (one’s moments) to Allah and on nor regarding as
halaal even a grain in which there is doubt even in times of need, leave
alone times of comfort and prosperity.
The Mureed is required to perpetually struggle in abstaining from lust and

lowly desire. He who has complied with his desires has destroyed his
acceptance (in this Path). The worst thing which can happen to the Mureed
is his return to a lust or desire which he had shunned for the sake of Allah
Ta’ala.
19. It is not befitting the rank of the Mureed to accept the politeness of
women. This has been the method of all the Saalikeen of this Path. When
it is prohibited to even accept the politeness of women then to a far
greater degree will its acquisition be forbidden. This has been the way of
the Shuyookh. Whoever considers this an insignificant thing will soon be
faced with affairs which will bring him to disgrace.
20. It is essential for the Mureed to keep aloof of the seekers of the world
because their companionship has been proven to be poison. Allah Ta’ala
has said that one should not follow a person whose heart Allah has
turned away from Allah’s remembrance. Ahl-e-Zuhd (the people of
abstention, i.e. the Saalikeen) are in the quest of Allah’s Proximity and
in this endeavour they spend wealth. Ahl-e-Safaa (the purified ones) in
their endeavours to acquire the Companionship of Allah expel from their
hearts all creation in general, and acquaintances in particular.
FURTHER ADMONITION
1. A sinner who repents is nobler than a man whose worship is followed by
pride.
2. The sign of the heart enjoying a connection with Allah Ta’ala is the
heart’s inability to find enjoyment in any relationship of the world.
119
3. Sleep with maut under your pillow and when you arise do not have
much hope in life.
4. Never consider sin to be small. Regard sin as great. He who thinks

slightly of sin has considered Allah to be insignificant.
5. Guard the nafs at all times.
6. Abstention from sin is of greater importance than Ibaadat.
7. A little of halaal earnings is superior to earnings which are in

abundance, but haraam. Respect is in contentment and comfort in
abstention.
8. A strong Sabr is to be pleased with one’s lot.
9. Courage is to acquire the knowledge of the Deen. Perfect practice is that

which is accompanied by ikhlaas (sincerity).
10. It is of the acts of courage that one acquires the knowledge of the Deen;
practice perfectly with sincerity, and be fully contented and adopt
beautiful patience.
11. A sheep is nobler than a man who sacrifices the commands of Allah for
the sake of his desire, for the call of the shepherd is heard by the sheep.
12. The association of the pious is better than acts of piety and the
association of the evil is worse than acts of evil.
13. The non-existence of even a grain of vanity and falsehood in one is an

aspect of Ma’rifat.
14. The look cast without the intention of gaining admonition and lesson is
total neglect and a medium of disgrace. Freedom is obtained by
trampling the desires of the nafs underfoot. Elimination of envy
occasions the love of Allah.
15. When speaking, speak the truth whether in anger or In happiness.
16. Three persons depart with regret at the time of death. A man who spent
his life accumulating wealth without having realized contentment. A man
who did not obtain what he had wished for. A man who did not prepare
120
his stock for the Hereafter.
17. Abstain from the companionship of a friend who causes you no benefit
of the Aakhirah. The friendship of worldly people is like something
which has beautiful colour but bad taste. Hadhrat Hasan(rahmatullah
alayh) said: “Never listen to music no matter what rank you have
attained.”
18. The knowledge of a man who prefers conversation with people to

remembrance of Allah, is little; his heart is blind and his life is wasted.
19. The lowest degree of harm which befalls a man who befriends the world
is that Allah Ta’ala eliminates the pleasure of His remembrance and
supplication From his heart.
20. Shaitaan does not bother about the one who in this world is a seeker of
the pleasure of the nafs because such a person has himself gone astray.
What purpose then has shaitaan to search for him?
21. Hadhrat Shaikh Muhammad Waasi’ (rahmatullah alayh) was among the
very greatest Auliyaa. A man requested naseehat of him. The Shaikh
said: “I will give you such naseehat by means of which you may become
the king of the world, and obtain peace in the Aakhirah. Adopt zuhd
(abstention) in this world. Never have any greed or hope regarding any
man. Regard all creation to be dependant on Allah. It is then evident that
you will become independent of all. This is the meaning of becoming a
king.”
22. Ruin comes to a person from six avenues.

a. Weakness of intention regarding the acts of the Aakhirah.
b. Obedience to the commands of shaitaan and striving in that direction.
c. Inspite of nearness of death, to entertain distant hopes and plans.
d. To adopt the pleasure of people in preference to the Pleasure of Allah.
e. To abstain from the Sunnah of Rasulullah ~ because of obedience to the
desires of the nafs.
f. To cite the errors of previous Auliyaa as proof for one’s acts and to bury
their excellences.
23. The sign of love for Allah Ta’ala is that one follows the character, acts,
laws and ways of the beloved of Allah (i.e. of Rasulullah
24. These ten attitudes will prove greatly beneficial in this world and the
121
Aakhirah:
Truth with sincerity; justice with creation; wrath with the nafs; service to the
saints; love and mercy upon little ones; generosity with the dervishes; advice
and admonition to friends; patience with enemies; silence with ignoramuses
and humility with the Ulama.
25. Stay among people, but remain aloof. Your body should be among
creation, but your heart with the Creator. This will ensure that
negligence does not overtake you. Beware of such negligence lest you
conform with people in a way which entails opposition to Allah and His
displeasure.
26. The sign of proximity and love of Allah Ta’ala is shunning all things
which impede the love of Allah;
27. There are two kinds of Taubah: Taubah-e-Inaabat and Taubah-e-

Istijaabat. Taubah-e-Inaabat is to repent of sins because of the fear of
Allah’s punishment. Taubah-e-Istijaabat is to resort to Taubah because
of shame for Allah Ta’ala. One’s ibaadat is absolutely insignificant in
the presence of His Majesty and Splendour.
28. Every part of the body has its taubah. The taubah of the heart is its
intention to abstain from haraam. The taubah of the eye is not to glance
at things forbidden. The taubah of the ear is not to listen to evil and
nonsensical talk. The taubah of the hands is not to raise them toward
that which has been forbidden. The taubah of the stomach is to refrain
from consuming haraam. The taubah of one’s modesty is to abstain from
acts of immorality and fornication.
29. A contemptible person is one who inspite of being ignorant of the Path
of Allah does nor enquire about it.
30. People said to Hadhrat Baayazid Bustaami (rahmatullah alayh):
“You are a performer of many miracles. You walk on the surface

of water.”
He replied: “This is no miracle. Twigs also float on water.”
People said: “But you fly in the air.”

He replied: “This too is no miracle, for tiny insects too fly in the
air.”
122
People said: “It is indeed a great miracle that within a single night
you travel to Makkah Muazzamah.”
He replied: “This too is nothing. Sorcerers journey in a single night
from Hindustan to Mount Diyaanand.”
People said: “What then is a miracle?”

He replied: “A miracle is engrossment of the heart with none
besides Allah.”
31. Your relationship with your Shaikh should be like the relationship of
Hadhrat Siddique Akbar Radiallahu Anhu with Rasulullah (ρ). He never
contradicted Rasulullah (ρ) in either the Deen or the dunyaa. One should
have a Shaikh fitting the description given by Hadhrat Junaid
(rahmatullah alayh), the Qur’aan-e-Kareem, in his right hand, the
Sunnah of Rasulullah (ρ) in his left hand and he (the Shaikh) should
walk in the light of these two lamps so that one does nor fall in the pits
of doubt nor in the darkness of bid’ah.
32. When man considers his nafs to be despicable and contemptible, it is the
sign of Allah loving and honouring him. And, when he considers his nafs
to be honourable and when his defects remain hidden from him, it is the
sign of Allah’s detestation for him.
ADMONITION IN GENERAL
Ameerul Mu’mineen, Ya’subud Deen, Imaamul Mashaariq wal Maghaarib
Hadhrat Ali (karaamallahu wajhah) said:.
“I have selected from the Taurah Shareef twelve statements and I

daily reflect on these statements thrice.”
These twelve statements follow hereunder.
ALLAH TA’ALA SAYS:

1. O man! Never fear any shaitaan and king as long as My Reign endures .
2. O man! Never be worried about your food as long as you find My

treasures to be filled. My treasures never decrease nor will be depleted.
123
3. O man! when you become helpless in any affair, call Me, and most
certainly, you will find Me. I am the bestower of all things and all
goodness.
4. O man! Be assured that I regard you as My friend. You therefore,

befriend Me.
5. O man! Do not become fearless of Me until you have crossed the Bridge
(in Qiyaamah).
6. O man! I have created you out of dust, sperm and a blood-clot. I was not
without perfect power when creating you, how then can be without
power in feeding you? Why then do you seek from others?
7. O man! I have created all things for you and, I have created you for My
Ibaadat, But you have become trapped in that which has been created
for your service and you have drifted away from Me for the sake of
others.
8. O man! All creation desires something for themselves while I desire you
for your own sake, but you run from Me.
9. O man! You are displeased with Me because of the desires of the nafs,
but never did you become displeased with your nafs for My sake.
10. O man! My Ibaadat is incumbent on you and upon Me is incumbent

your feeding. Bur, in most cases you are deficient in your duty while 1
am never deficient in feeding you.
11. O man! You seek future sustenance even today, but I do not desire from
you the Ibaadat of the future.
12. O man! You will forever remain in peace and comfort if you are
contented with what I have given you. If you are not contented with it, 1
will assert the greed of the world over you. It will then cause you to run
form pillar to post, from door to door in utter contempt and then too you
will obtain only that which has been predestined for you.
AN EPISODE––TO REFLECT!
Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi (rahmatullah alayh),
narrates the following awe-inspiring episode in which there is a great lesson
124
for reflection. A man who was a resident of the town of Gawaaliya, India,
spared no efforts in the English education of his son. (In those days of
political serfdom) it was considered a honour to be educated along the lines
of the British rulers). He expended a considerable sum of money in his son’s
worldly education. After attaining the limits of English education which the
institutions in India could offer, the Father despatched his son to London to
obtain the highest qualifications in English education. The son passed his
examinations in London with flying colours, but upon returning to India he
became seriously ill.
His condition deteriorated until he (the son) was on the verge of death. The
father, stricken with sorrow and misery, sat at the bedside of his dying son
and wailed:
“O my son! I have spent 25 thousand rupees in your education, but I have

nor seen the fruit of my efforts.”
The son in the last stages of life suddenly opened his eyes and exclaimed:
“O my beloved father! Why do you wail and cry now? When you observe
me in the Aakhirah burning in the Fire of Jahannum then you may truly cry.
You, by spending these 25 thousand rupees have made the arrangements for
my fall into Jahannum. You have purchased Jahannum for me with this sum.
Because you have kept me ignorant of the education of the Deen. At this
time I am witnessing the futility of all my education. The Angels of death are
at hand. You, by expending such a large sum, have not befriended me, but
you have displayed that you are my enemy manifest.”
(Wa’zul Hudaa)
125

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SHARIAT AND TASAWWUF

ABOUT THE AUTHOR.........................................................................................7

TASAWWUF THE NATURE OF TASAWWUF................................................15

THE NEED FOR TASAWWUF...........................................................................15

TASAWWUF AND THE QUR’AAN...................................................................16

THE I’TIDAAL (EQUILIBRIUM) AND HUSAN (BEAUTY) OF THE FOUR

THE NATURE OF NAFS.....................................................................................98

CONDITIONS FOR IJAAZAT..........................................................................101

THE JOURNEY OF SULOOK..........................................................................102

THE EXERCISE OF PAAS ANFAAS...............................................................112

NASEEHAT SPECIALLY FOR THOSE INVOLVED IN THIKR AND

IMPORTANT ADVICE FOR THE SAALIK...................................................114

“And join the ranks of the Saadiqeen (Auliyaa).”

A SINCERE Wali of Allah is the Representative (Khalifah) of Allah Ta’ala

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb was born in 1329 or 1330 A.H. at Barlah,

“From childhood he (Hadhrat Maseehullah Saheb has been the

Hadhrat Mufti Saeed Ahmad Lucknowi (rahmatullah alayh) – a great

Among the various Khulafaa of Hakeemul Ummat R.A. Hadhrat

“ISAA AND MASEEH HAVE SURPASSED (THE OTHERS)”

Isaa here is a reference to Hadhrat Maulana Muhammad Isaa R.A. also

‘There is order and arrangement in his temperament, hence order and

SPIRITUAL INTUITION AND INSPIRATION (WAARIDAATE

“Act according to what enters into your heart repeatedly.”

This instruction of Hadhrat Hakimul Ummat R.A. adequately illustrates the

RU’YAA SAALIHAH OR TRUE DREAMS

Rasulullah (ρ) replied:

SOME NOTEWORTHY ‘MUBASH-SHIRAAT’ OF HADHRAT

Hadhrat Khwaajah Mu’eenuddin Chisti R.A. specially directed Hadhrat

In this directive is the tidings of Hadhrat Maseehullah being “Mustajaabud

“I happened to be present in the ‘khanqah’ when Hadratwaala

The choice of Hadhrat Maseehullah as the spiritual custodian of Jalalabad

The Madressa is operated purely on the basis of ‘Tawakkul’ (Trust in Allah

“Verily, Allah Ta’ala will not eliminate Knowledge by way of extracting it

THE HOLY CHISTIYYA, MASEEHIYYAH, ASHRAFIYYAH,

to the auspicious chain of Auliyaa, which is linked to Rasulullah (ρ) Every

Hadhrat Mohammed Maseehullah Khan (died 1413 A.H.)

Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi (died 1362 A.H.)

INTRODUCTION (by the Author)

“By virtue of his (Hadhrat Thaanvi’s) ta’leem (teaching), tarbiyat (spiritual

TASAWWUF THE NATURE OF TASAWWUF

THE NEED FOR TASAWWUF

In Tareequl Qalandar, he says:

TASAWWUF AND THE QUR’AAN

“O People of Imaan! Establish Salaat and give Zakaat

“And be grateful unto Allah”.

“Fasting has been decreed upon you.”

“Those who have adopted Imaan are most ardent in

Similarly, along with:

“When they stand for Salaat, they stand half-

“They show people (i.e. they perform Salaat in riya).”

Allah Ta’ala declares:

“Verily, he who has purified the nafs has attained

“That Day (of Qiyamat) neither wealth nor sons will

STATEMENTS OF THE SUFIYA

Hadhrat Junaid (rahmatullah alayh) says:

Hadhrat Nuri (rahmatullah alayh) says:

Hadhrat Khwajah Naseeruddin Chiraghe Dehlawi (rahmatullah alayh) says:

Khwajah Mueenuddin Chishti (rahmatullah alayh) says: