THE MURSHID
AND THE MUREED
Moulana Abdun Nabi Hamidi
IMAM AHMED RAZA ACADEMY
DURBAN SOUTH AFRICA
A BARAKAATUR RAZA PUBLICATION
COPYRIGHT RESERVED
Date
of Publication: Rajab 1422 A.H.
(October 2001)
Number of
copies: 1 500
Publishers:
Imam Ahmed
Raza Academy
Ahmed Raza
Building
3rd
Floor, 20-22 Lorne Street
Durban. 4001
South Africa
Postal
Address:
P.O. Box 5325
Durban. 4000
South Africa
Phone: (031)
309-3642
Fax: (031)
309-3707
Cell:
083-988-6554
Int. Code:
(27) (31) + Number
Web Site:
www.raza.co.za
e-mail:
yunusraza@hotmail.com
ISBN:
0-9584436-8-8
PREFACE
Today,
false Sufis have emerged in many parts of the world and in our very own
environment. These “pseudo-Sufis”, with what little knowledge, if any, of
the Deen that they possess and of the Spiritualism, prey on the ignorant by
revealing the “secrets” of the common people, or dressing in false garbs of
piety, have thoroughly destroyed the true meaning of Tasawwuf. They command
people to become their Mureeds and act as true spiritual guides when their every
actions are not even in conformity with the Sharee’ah. The unwary masses,
totally ignorant of their reality, begin to follow them and become so attached
that they themselves fail to recognise Truth from Falsehood.
Tasawwuf
is a branch of Islamic knowledge that is not readily understood nor appreciated
by the masses. The need for its explanation in simple language is, therefore, an
urgent need. This book fulfils this need adequately for the aspiring, enquiring
mind.
The
meaning of Tasawwuf is clearly defined in this book. Who is a Murshid (spiritual
guide), his innate qualities and his duties towards his Mureeds (disciples) is
discussed. The relationship between Murshid and Mureed is clearly illustrated.
The two types of Murshids is explained. The meaning and types of Bay’ah is
also discussed.
By
writing this book, Moulana Abdun Nabi Hamidi has done a great service to
Spiritualism. This inspiring and informative book is a must for every Mureed and
intending Mureeds because it explains in simple terms the various principles
involved in this relationship between Murshid and Mureed. The ultimate goal of
this relationship is to inculcate love in the heart of the Mureed for his of her
Murshid, which would, through spiritual exercise and perseverance lead to love
for Rasoolullah(Peace Be Upon Him) and for ALLAH.
If the intention of every Muslim is to attain the Pleasure of ALLAH,
then love for the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) and ALLAH is an important pre-requisite towards the attainment of this Pleasure.
May
ALLAH, the Creator and Sustainer of all the Universes cleanse our hearts of
all its materialism and illuminate it with the love for the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) and ALLAH
Himself. Aameen. May
ALLAH, the Most Compassionate, make it easy for all of us. Aameen.
(Educationist
and former Lecturer)
11 Rajab 1422 A.H.
All Praise is due to Almighty ALLAH, Peace and Salutations upon our beloved Prophet
Hadrat Muhammad(Peace Be Upon Him), his noble Companions(Radi ALLAH Anh) and his exalted Family(Radi ALLAH Anh).
Almighty ALLAH
states in the Holy Quran: “Undoubtedly, he attained to his goal who
purified”. (Al-A’la: 14)
The body and the soul together make up a complete
person. While the body belongs to this world, the soul’s origin is the realm
of Divine Power. Almighty ALLAH
by His Divine Power has united them and made provisions for their growth. Just
as Almighty ALLAH has provided various foods for the nourishment of
the body, He Y
has also provided sustenance for the soul. This vital sustenance, which
invigorates the soul, is the Remembrance of Almighty ALLAH.
At times the body is prone to ailments, the cure of
which is available in various medicines. The soul also falls ill in which case
Almighty ALLAH
has provided remedies. Doctors treat the body at times of illness and Friends of
Almighty Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh) are healers of the soul. As we consult doctors for our physical ailments, we
should consult the Awliya Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh) for our spiritual ailments.
The body and the soul each have their particular
impurities. Impurities of the body are urine, faeces, pus, and so forth.
Similarly, impurities of the soul are lying, cheating, polytheism (associating
partners with Almighty Allah Y),
and any other activities that is against the Sharee’ah (Islamic Law). Just as
we dislike any filth to defile our bodies and if this happens we immediately
remove it, it is incumbent on every Muslim to cleanse and purify his soul from
any impurities. The impurities of the body are cleansed with water, and the
water to cleanse the soul is sincere repentance. The tear of a repenter purges
his soul and cleanses his heart.
Almighty ALLAH
declares: “Undoubtedly, he attained to his goal who is purified”. The
cleanliness and purity intended in this Ayah is of a comprehensive and inclusive
nature. Hence, Islam calls us to physical as well as spiritual and mental
cleanliness; both outer and inner cleanliness. To realise this complete purity
in a balanced manner, Islam offers comprehensive guidelines. Other religions
lack this balance and symmetry found in Islam. Some religions focus only on the
mind and neglect the physical dimension. However, the heart, mind and body are
so interwoven that they mutually affect each other. Hence, purification of the
body affects the purity of the mind and heart. In the light of this, the Holy
Quran teaches: “Glorify your Lord and keep your garments clean.”
(Mudaththir: 4-5). The Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) informs
us that cleanliness is part of faith (Mishkaat, Book of Cleanliness, Chapter 1).
To attain purity of the soul one needs knowledge
relevant to this purity. This particular knowledge is the science of Tasawwuf,
which is the faculties governing the conduct of the Murshid (spiritual guide)
and the Mureed (disciple), and the knowledge and practice of Awraad (special
prayers).
Imam of Sultan Bahu Juma Masjid
Mayfair. Johannesburg
Tasawwuf is the concept, which embodies the
purification of the heart by sincerely, and obediently practising the lifestyle
of the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) in all
spheres of his life.
Hadrat
Sheikh Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajweri(Radi ALLAH Anh) (400-465
A.H.) narrates from Hadrat Murtaish(Radi ALLAH Anh). “Tasawwuf
is refined character. This refined character may be attained in three ways:
Firstly, to obey the commandments of Almighty ALLAH and his Rasool(Peace Be Upon Him)
with
utmost sincerity. Secondly, to respect all those senior to us in age, knowledge
and piety; love the young; observe justice at all times and not to expect any
return for our good actions. Thirdly, to avoid all evil desires and Satanic
attractions. By complying to the aforementioned regulations one attains
piety.” (Kashful Mahjoob, pg. 106)
SUPPORTING THE CAUSE OF TASAWWUF
Those who have devoted themselves completely to the
service of Almighty ALLAH
do not even bother to obtain a means of substance. Such people are being
provided with financial help from anonymous sources. These pious people do not
have hopes of material gain from people. They have complete trust in Almighty ALLAH. When they receive some gift from the public, they
receive it with the Niyyah (intention) that Almighty ALLAH is the Giver and the donor is the means. To be of
any assistance to such people is actually to do good to us.
Ghausul A’zam, Sayyiduna Sheikh Abdul Qaadir Jilani(Radi ALLAH Anh)
states that Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him)
has recommended giving food to ascetics and pious persons and giving clothing to
the Believers. By assisting such a
person with worldly necessities we minimize his burden and enable him to devote
himself completely to Almighty ALLAH. In this way, we will receive the reward of his good deeds since we have provided
him with necessary physical nourishment and helped him furthering the cause of
Almighty ALLAH. (Al-Fat’hur Rabbani, pg. 192)
The general public at times presents Mashaa’ikh and
Ulama with gifts. This is a good practice as it frees them from worldly
trivialities, enabling them to dedicate themselves fully in the work of Almighty
ALLAH.
However, there are fraudulent persons amongst the
Ulama and Mashaa’ikh who are involved in sinful deeds and practice acts
refuted by the Sharee’ah. These people should not be given assistance or gifts
since it makes the donor, if he is aware of the nature of such a person, an
accomplice to the sin. The onus
lies on the public to exercise discretion and judgment and decide if the person
is deserving of any form of assistance.
CATEGORIES OF AHLUS SAFA (PEOPLE OF PURITY)
“People of Purity”, also known as “Ahlus
Safa”, are characterised as follows:-
1. SUFI: Sufi is that person who has overcome
his self-ego as well as all human weaknesses, whilst at the same time being
aware of the reality of all existence. Truth is the hallmark of his life. The
term Sufi refers to an established and completely realised Wali Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh)
(Friend of Almighty Allah). In “Kashful Mahjoob” a Sheikh is quoted
as saying “one who is emerged in the friendship of Almighty ALLAH and has freed himself from all other than
Almighty ALLAH,
is a Sufi”. (Kashful Mahjoob, pg.97)
Ghausul A’zam, Hadrat Sheikh Abdul Qaadir Jilani(Radi ALLAH Anh)
explains that until a person has not reached the rank where he is graced by the
vision of Nabi Muhammad(Peace Be Upon Him) in his dream and is given commands and prohibitions, he cannot be
regarded as a Sufi. If this fortunate incident does occur, then his heart gains
promotion and his innermost being is cleansed and he attains the proximity of
Almighty ALLAH
while his hands are in the hands of Nabi Muhammad(Radi ALLAH Anh). (Al Fath-ur-Rabbani, pg. 389)
2. MUTASAWWIF: One who is striving to attain
the status of a Sufi through Mujahidah (Continuous struggle against evil
desires). He follows the examples of the Sufis to better himself.
3. MUSTASWIF: One who impersonates a Sufi for monetary gain, power, and worldly honour. He does not have any of the qualities of the Sufi or Mustasawwif. (Kashful Mahjoob, pg. 98)
If a person wants to learn any art form or gain
knowledge/science he will seek help from an expert in that field. Knowledge of
Almighty Allah ’s Y
Zaat (Being) is the most difficult secret in the universe. It can only be
achieved with the help of its experts, the Awliya Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh). Only these people can be accepted as Murshids
(guides). The following quotation defines the need and guidance of a Murshid.
Ghausul A’zam, Hadrat Sheikh Abdul Qaadir Jilani(Radi ALLAH Anh)
brings home the necessity of a Murshid in a beautiful metaphor. He says: “The
heart is the plantation for the Aakhirah (Hereafter). Sow the seeds of Imaan in
your heart. Irrigate, fertilise and mature it with regular good deeds. If there
is kindness and energy in the heart it will be fertile and an abundant harvest
will result. Should the heart be harsh and contemptuous, the soul becomes
infertile and barren and no crop will be able to grow. Learn this art of farming
by its farmers/experts, the Awliya Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh).
Do not think your opinion to be sufficient. Our Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) says, ‘Seek help in every field from an expert in that field’”.
(Al-Fath-ur-Rabbani, pg. 202)
Ghausul A’zam(Radi ALLAH Anh) said: “Arrogance, hypocrisy, egoism, are all arrows of Shaytaan aimed at
your hearts. One should formulate a strategy to defend oneself from this attack.
The correct strategies are explained and demonstrated by the Mashaa’ikh
(Guides). You should heed to their commands and act on them. They will guide you
on the path of Almighty ALLAH since they have already travelled on this path. Ask their advise on
matters relating to the Nafs (carnal desires), cravings and other weaknesses
because they have also suffered their consequences and are well aware of the
dangers and harms of evil desires. They have battled these over a long period of
time and can confront, control and defeat them”. (Al-Fath-ur-Rabbani, pg.
150)
Ghaus-ul A’zam(Radi ALLAH Anh) says: “If a person is unable to differentiate between a true and false
Murshid, he should read 2 Rakaats Nafil for achieving recognition of Almighty ALLAH
at Tahajjud time. Then he should ask Almighty ALLAH
to inform him of those pious people who will be able to guide him on the
Right Path. He should beseech Almighty ALLAH to show him the person who will intoxicate him with Almighty Allah’s
love and adorn the eyes of his heart with the
light of Almighty Allah’s Y
closeness and inform him of unseen happenings that he personally
witnessed”. (Insha-Allah by doing so, one will receive the
answer)(Al-Fath-ur Rabbani, pg.146)
If someone is unable to do this then he should seek
the advise of a well versed Sunni Aalim. At times, people take advice from the
ignorant and become Mureeds of Shaytaan. May Almighty ALLAH protect us all. Aameen.
The Murshid is obligated to follow the commands of
Sharee’ah with absolute respect and dedication. The role of the Murshid is to
enlighten the path of those who are astray with righteousness and guidance. A
“Murshid” who does not respect and follow the Sharee’ah is himself in
darkness and totally incapable of illuminating (rating someone else’s path or
guiding them). Such people are disciples of Shaytaan and the enemies of Islam.
Some Murshids go about sowing doubts in the minds of their followers. They teach
that Salaah and Saum (Fasting) are outward forms of worship and should be left
to the Ulama. They claim that they practice and worship with their hearts only.
Such Mushids are astray and mislead their followers too. They feast in Ramadaan
openly mocking the Sharee’ah and Tareeqah. Yet, ignorant Mureeds are convinced
that these people will transport them into Jannah. It is strange that bodily
requirements like eating, drinking, sleeping, taking medication and other
physical activities are done promptly. It
is only those physical duties commanded by Almighty ALLAH and Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him)
that strain their bodies and they choose to perform it with their heart. Why do
they not perform other functions like eating and drinking with the heart? “True
Saints only feel hungry once in forty days”. (Kashful Mahjoob, pg. 444)
It should be remembered that Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him),
his Noble Companions(Radi ALLAH Anh),
the Tabi’in(Radi ALLAH Anh),
Taba Tabi’in(Radi ALLAH Anh),
the true Saints(Radi ALLAH Anh),
and the Allah-fearing people never performed such “hearty” Salaah or Saum.
These are physical forms of Ibadah, which have to be performed bodily. They
should be performed not just with the heart; they should be carried with the
heart and mind completely engrossed in Almighty Allah’s Y
worship.
Hadrat Umar Farooq(Radi ALLAH Anh) demonstrated the importance of Salaah when he was fatally wounded by Abu Lulu.
He performed Fajr Salaah even though bleeding profusely and said that those who
do not perform Salaah have no part in Islam. (Izaalatul Khifaa, Vol. 4, pg. 281)
Some “Murshids” deny the Absolute Unity and
Oneness of Almighty ALLAH
(Tauheed). They believe Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him) to be the “Lord” and regard this as the supreme secret of Tasawwuf. To
justify their evil beliefs, they misuse terms like “Anal Haq” which is
sometimes uttered by Saints in a state of spiritual intoxication. (The nature of
the “Anal Haq” phrase will be explained later on.)
When the Ulema-e-Haq challenge such blasphemous
claims, these fraudulent “Murshids” hide behind false claims that the Ulama
are mere followers of Sharee’ah and un-informed of inner knowledge. To protect
their fraudulent practices, they instruct their Mureeds not to publicise their
teachings because others would not understand the finer points and implications
of this so-called “inner knowledge”. They do this so that they may not be
exposed. They also keep their Mureeds away from the Ulama so that the Mureeds
must not become aware of their tricks and their means of income is not
terminated.
Sultaanul Aarifeen, Hadrat Sultaan Bahu(Radi ALLAH Anh)
affirms that when a person steps in the area of Tasawwuf (Durwesh-hood) he
should diligently follow the demands of the Sharee’ah. He should follow the
teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah at every step and he should keep the
company of the Ulama and Fuqara. He should only do those things advised by the
Sharee’ah and refrain from those actions that are prohibited by the
Sharee’ah. He should not allow either carnal desires or evil temptation to
influence him. (Mihakul Foqaraa, pg. 93)
Hadrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hujweri(Radi ALLAH Anh) writes: “A group of heretics have joined the Sufis. They preach that once
obedience to Sharee’ah is intensified to such an extent that Wilaayah
(Sainthood) is achieved, Ta’at (obedience to the Laws of Sharee’ah) is no
longer necessary. This is an
incorrect and false claim. In the path of truth, there is absolutely no stage
where Ta’at becomes redundant”. (Kashful Mahjoob, pg. 312)
Hadrat Data Saahib(Radi ALLAH Anh) emphasizes that to achieve Wilaayat, the compliance to the Sunnah of Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him)
is definitely required. (Kashful Mahjoob, pg. 455)
Hadrat Data Ganj Baksh(Radi ALLAH Anh) explains the relationship of Haqiqah and Shari’ah as follows: “Sharee’ah
without Haqeeqah is a farce and show and Haqeeqah without Sharee’ah is
hypocrisy. Pretence and hypocrisy are both the ruination of Imaan. Almighty ALLAH
says: ‘Whoever exhibits Mujahidah (continuous
striving) towards us, We will show them Our path’. Mujahidah is Sharee’ah
and guidance towards the path of Almighty ALLAH
is Haqeeqah. Sharee’ah functions to protect the outward and Haqeeqah guards
the inner conditions of the Believer”. (Kashful Mahjoob, pg. 526)
One should note that Sharee’ah is established on
the firm foundation of Quran, Sunnah, Consensus and analogy of the Jurists. If a
person disputes any particular analogical Mas’ala and is equipped with
substantiating evidence, then the matter is not so serious. However, when a
person openly defies the Quran, Hadith and ‘Ijma (consensus), he not only
gives up any claim to being a Murshid, but of also being a Muslim.
EXPECTATIONS
THAT A MUREED SHOULD HAVE IN HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE MURSHID
Some people become Mureeds hoping for financial
prosperity, release from the worldly hardships and living a comfortable life. At
times, the Awliya Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh) bless their Mureeds with worldly favours. The Mureed
should avoid worldly motives and take Bay’ah (pledge allegiance) solely to
attain Almighty Allah ’s Marifah, cure the soul and express true repentance. He should have the pure
intention of complete obedience to Almighty ALLAH and the Holy Prophet Muhammad(Peace Be Upon Him).
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COMPETENT AND
AN INCOMPETENT MURSHID
Sultaanul Fuqara, Hadrat Faqir Nur
Muhammed Sarwari Qaadri(Radi ALLAH Anh), defines a perfect Sheikh as
one who discards the Nafs (carnal desires), purifies the soul and cleanses the
mind of his Mureed for the sole purpose of guiding his disciple on the correct
path and delivering him to Almighty ALLAH. A perfect Murshid does not attain
worldly gain.
A false Sheikh takes Mureeds so that his worldly
status is boosted. The Mureed gives his hard-earned income to his Murshid who
lives a luxurious lifestyle, which cannot even be afforded by the affluent
people. These “heavens-marketers” have furnished their homes with the
trappings of Hell and have become the Fuel of Hell.
A disciple must first evaluate the
Murshid in the context of worldly transactions. As soon as he is convinced of a
selfish or worldly motive he should immediately disassociate himself from such a
Murshid. The Murshid should not claim his status because of lineage, rather, he
should have been under training of a perfect Sheikh and practiced upon the
spiritual exercises, travelled the inner paths and be well versed with all the
stages of spiritual progress. Acquainting
oneself with books of Tasawwuf or attaining superficial knowledge of
Jurisprudence or logic or being born in the household of a pious person or
claiming Khilaafat (permission to take Bay’ah) from a false Murshid does not
qualify one as a Murshid. One cannot hope for any guidance (Hidayah) or grace
(Faiz) from such a false Murshid. Unfortunately, these pretentious Murshids roam
our streets in abundance causing mayhem and chaos. May Almighty ALLAH grant
Hidayah to these customary Sheikhs (Peers) and bless the Mureeds with better
judgement. (Irfaan, pg. 326)
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE MUREED AND
THE MURSHID
21. A Mureed must not speak ill of other Murshids, as it may invoke the Mureeds of the other Murshid to retaliate. This is not a practice of Islam.
Murshids are two types:
The Murshids Khaas comprises of the Sheikhul Ittisaal
and the Sheikhul Isaal.
The Murshid Aam comprises of the Quran, Hadith, the
writings of the Jurists, the Murshids, authorities of Tasawwuf, the writings of
the scholars, and the writings of the people of guidance and righteousness. The
guide of the general public is the Kalaam (Speech and Writings) of the Scholars.
The guide of the Ulama or Scholars is the writings of the Imams(Radi ALLAH Anh) of Fiqh. The guide of Imams(Radi ALLAH Anh)
of Fiqh is the Sunnah and Hadith of Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him).
The guide of the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) is the Quran/Speech/Revelation of Almighty ALLAH.
From this it can be seen that the Murshid Aam is an
absolute necessity. A person without guidance of both the Murshids, i.e. Khaas
and Aam is under the reign of Shaytaan. It
is in this sense that A’la Hadrat, Moulana Ahmed Raza Khan Bareilwi(Radi ALLAH Anh)
writes that Sayyiduna Baayazid Bustaami’s(Radi ALLAH Anh)
declaration in “Awaariful Ma’arif” that
those without a Murshid (Khaas and Aam) have Shaytaan as their guide. (Fatawa
Afriqa, pg.124)
A’la Hadrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Bareilwi(Radi ALLAH Anh)
has identified 12 cults which have Shaytaan as their Murshid.
Muslims should avoid such groups, as taking guidance from them will
invite the Wrath of Almighty ALLAH. The Cults identified by A’la Hadrat(Radi ALLAH Anh)
are:
1. The evil jesters who mock the Ulama and jeer at
the teachings of the Sharee’ah. They (falsely) claim that the Ulama and the
Fuqara have always been at odds with each other. These ignorant idiots cast
doubts over the most eminent Ulama and question their integrity. They slander
them by calling them (Ulama) “pundits” and say that the Ulama should
exhibit/perform miracles like those of the Prophets of Bani Israel u.
2. Heretics who are self-proclaimed Faqeers and Walis
(Saints). They claim that Sharee’ah is a path, which is no longer needed once
the destination is reached.
3. Those who are actually unlettered, uncultivated
and uneducated. They skim through a few books and feign to be most
knowledgeable. They disregard the Imams of Fiqh like Imam Abu Hanifa(Radi ALLAH Anh),
Imam Shafi’I(Radi ALLAH Anh) … and consider themselves more learned than them and find faults with their
rulings and decrees. They consider themselves greater scholars of the Quran and
Hadith than the Imams(Radi ALLAH Anh).
Such persons are misguided - Ghair Muqallids.
4. Worse than the first three cults are those who
believe in the Book “Taqwi’atul Imaan” by Ismail Dehlawi and have
turned their backs on the Quran and the Hadith. According to their principles
and beliefs contained in the afore-mentioned text, even Almighty ALLAH and His Rasool(Peace Be Upon Him)
are Mushriks! The text “Taqwi’atul
Imaan” is the source text and root of Deobandism.
5. Worst than all those are the Deobandis who have
rationalized Kufriah teachings of Gangohi, Nanotwi and Thanwi, etc, and
colouring it in as an Islamic context. They have transgressed to such an extent
that they have accepted insults of Almighty ALLAH and the beloved Rasool(Peace Be Upon Him).
6. Qadiyanis
7. Nechri (atheist)
8. Chakraalwi (Ahle Quran or Quraani group)
9. Rawaafiz (Shi’ite dissenting sect)
10. Khawaarij (a sect dissenting from Hadrat Ali )
11. Nawaasib (a sect dissenting from Hadrat Ali(Radi ALLAH Anh)
and Ahle Bait)
12. Mo’tazelah, etc. (rationalistic sect of
dissenters) (Fatawa Afriqa, pg 138/139)
SALAASALE
ARB’AH (4 SILSILAS)
1. Qaaderi Silsila - Imam of which is Hadrat Sayyiduna Sheikh Abdul Qaadir Jailani
2. Chishtia Silsila - whose protogonist is Hadrat Sheikh Khawja Moinuddin Chishti Ajmeri
3. Soharwardi Silsila - founded by Hadrat Sheikh Khawja Shahaabuddin Suharwardi
4. Naqshbandi Silsila - established by Hadrat
Sheikh Khawja Bahaauddien Naqshbandi
These Silsilas originate form Quran and Sunnah and
are motivated by the Sharee’ah. Their purpose is to uphold the Quran and
Hadith. Islam is like the ocean and these four Silsilas are like canals, which
originate from the ocean and finish into it. The Silsilas are linked to their
founders.
Saints perform miracles at times, however miracles
are not a necessary condition of Sainthood. The Saints (Awliya t)
regard obeying the Sharee’ah conscientiously as the biggest miracle. Ghaual
A’zam(Radi ALLAH Anh) said: “The miracle of a Wali is his complete compliance to the teachings of
Nabi ”.
Sheikh-e- Akbar, Muhiyyudeen Muhammed Ibnul Arabi(Radi ALLAH Anh)
explains the phenomenon of miracles. One
type of miracle is the Hissi (apparent) miracle, that is, it is evident and
clearly seen by the general public. For example, flying in the air, walking on
water, fore-telling the future, traversing hundreds of miles in one step.
Another type of miracle is the Ma’nawi (spiritual) miracle, which can only be
seen and perceived by special people. For example, control of carnal desires,
adopting virtues by Divine Guidance, refraining from bad habits, practicing all
Waajibaat (compulsory acts) punctually and diligently.
These types of miracles do not contain any connivance while it is
probable those Hissi miracles to contain connivance. (Futuhaate Makkiyah, Vol.
2, pg. 488)
The steadfast adherence to the Sharee’ah is the
best Karaamat. A true Saint is righteous and follows the path laid down by Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him).
Hadrat Bayazid Bustaami(Radi ALLAH Anh) cautions us: “If you see a person sitting cross-legged in the air, don’t
be fooled by his act! Observe his approach/attitude to the compulsory acts
(Fardh, Waajib) and prohibited acts (Haraam, Makruh Tahreemi) and detestable
acts (Makrooh) and other restrictions and etiquette’s of the Sharee’ah”.
(Risaalah Qushayriya, pg. 81)
Mashaa’ikh are of two categories, that is, Sheikhul
Ittisaal and Skeikhul Isaal.
Definition of a Sheikhul Ittisaal:
When a person pledges Bay’ah to him he is able to
connect the person to a spiritual order leading to the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him). He is a key link in the chain. A Sheikhul Ittisaal meets the
following four conditions: -
1. The Sheikh’s spiritual link to the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him)
is true and real. There should be no discontinuity or termination at any stage
in the spiritual chain from his Murshid to Rasoolullah (Peace Be Upon Him).
Some people accept a Mureed without actually being authorized and having the
capacity to do so. They may themselves have pledged Bay’ah to a Sheikh or be
from progeny, but lack the authority and spiritual capacity of taking Mureeds.
Such Bay’ah can under no circumstances attain Ittisaal - Linking one
spiritually to the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him).
2. The Sheikh has to be a Sunni, holding correct
beliefs. To follow a misguided Sheikh will lead one directly to Shaytaan,
instead of the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him). Many disbelievers, agnostic and enemies of the
Awliya Allah(Radi ALLAH Anh) like the Wahabis are openly practising Tareeqah and pledging Bay’ah,
creating confusion and bringing disrespect to this noble art. Sultaanul
Aarifeen, Hadrat Sheikh Sultan Bahu(Radi ALLAH Anh) affirms that the way of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah is the way of Almighty
ALLAH and those not on this path are astray. The Holy
Prophet’s(Peace Be Upon Him) path is the Path of Almighty ALLAH
and those deviating from it or against it are misguided. (Mihakul Fuqara, pg.
233)
3. The Sheikh must be an Aalim educated in the
Sharee’ah. He must be well-versed with the beliefs of the Ahlus Sunnah wal
Jama’ah and be able to distinguish between the straight path of Islam and
misguidedness and Kufr. Without these qualities there is always the possibility
of him faltering. There are several words and deeds, which lead one to Kufr. An
ignorant person, when saying such words or doing such deeds, is unaware that he
is committing an act of Kufr, hence repentance will not be forthcoming from such
a person.
4. The Sheikh must not be an open sinner (Faasiq
Mo’lin). While it is compulsory to revere the Murshid it is obligatory to
oppose a sinner. It would be impossible to apply two conflicting approaches to
one person.
Definition of a Sheikhul Isaal:
Sheikhul Isaal must have the four qualities of the
Sheikhul Ittisaal. In addition to these, the Sheikhul Isaal must also be aware
of the evils of the Nafs, the many tricks of Shaitaan and the seduction of
desires. He should be able to guide his Mureeds with fatherly affection and
advising them of their weaknesses and cures to them. The Sheikhul Isaal should
solve whatever difficulties the Mureed faces in the path of attaining the
realisation of Almighty ALLAH.
It is in the hands of such a Murshid that Baitul Iradah is taken. (Fatawa Afriqa
by A’la Hadrat, pg. 123)
MEANING
OF BAY’AH (PLEDGING ALLEGIANCE)
“Bay’ah” means “to be sold”. When one
becomes Mureed of a Murshid, he sells his heart, life and wealth to his Murshid.
After this sale he no longer has a say in these matters nor can he do as he
pleases.
A’la Hadrat, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan(Radi ALLAH Anh) writes that it is mentioned in “Subah Sanabil” that a person was
sentenced to death by an Emperor. As the executioner unsheathed a sword to
behead the person, the person faced the grave of his Murshid. The executioner
said, “At times like this you should face the Qibla.” The person
answered: “Do your duty, I have faced the Qibla. It is true that the Kaaba
is the Qibla of the body, and the Qibla of the heart and soul is the Murshid.”
This is real Iraadah (to become a disciple). If one persists with one’s Sheikh
with this kind of sincere devotion then benefits will definitely be received.
If the Sheikh is lacking, the Sheikh’s Sheikh may
not be inadequate. Otherwise, Ghausul A’zam(Radi ALLAH Anh),
who is the source of spiritual grace and fountain of lights, will provide you
with grace as long as the Silsila (spiritual chain) is authentic. (Malfoozaat
A’la Hadrat, pg.189)
A’la Hadrat(Radi ALLAH Anh) has mentioned that people regard Bay’ah as a custom and do not really
comprehend it’s meaning. A good example of Bay’ah is that of a certain
Mureed of Sheikh Yahya Munayri(Radi ALLAH Anh).
This Mureed was about to drown when Khizr u appeared to him and said, “Give me your hand so that I can rescue
you”. The Mureed replied, “I have already given this hand to Sheikh
Yahya Munayri(Radi ALLAH Anh). Now I will not give it to anyone else”.
Khizr u
disappeared and Sheikh Yahya Munayri(Radi ALLAH Anh) appeared and rescued him from drowning. (Malfoozat A’la Hadrat,
pg.164)
There are two types of Bay’ah - Bai’atul Barakah
and Bai’atul Iraadah:
Bai’atul
Barakah (Allegiance of Blessing):
One pledges Bai’atul Barakah by joining a Sisilah
(spiritual order) for attaining Barakah (spiritual grace). Bai’atul Barakah is
more widely pledged. However, one must be absolutely sincere in pledging to this
Bay’ah. For the Bai’atul Barakah to be complete, it is necessary that the
four conditions of a Sheikhul Itisaal be met. (The four conditions have been
explained). This Bay’ah is also very auspicious. To be amongst those who are loved by Almighty ALLAH and linking to their spiritual order is an honour
itself.
Bai’atul
Iraadah (Allegiance of Devotion)
In Bai’atul Iraadah one pledges to detach oneself
completely from one’s self-will wholely, and unconditionally place oneself in
the hands of the Murshid such that one may be moulded through the ways of
Tareeqah (the path to Almighty ALLAH
through spiritual training). No action or decision may be taken without the
consent and approval of the Sheikh. This Bay’ah is pledged and carried out by
the Saalikeen (Travelers on the path of Tasawwuf), hence it is also called
Bai’atus Saalikeen. It is also
the purpose of the Mashaa’ikh and a conveyance to Almighty ALLAH. The Holy Prophet Muhammad(Peace Be Upon Him) took this Bay’ah from the Noble Sahaba(Radi ALLAH Anh).
The Noble Companion, Abaada Ibnu Saamit Al Ansaari(Radi ALLAH Anh),
narrates: “We pledged Bay’ah to the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him) in all our matters of good and misfortunes, in
all trials and tribulations. We pledged to consult the Holy Prophet(Peace Be Upon Him)
in all our matters and to unflinchingly follow his orders and not to query
his commands”. (Fatawa Afriqa by A’la Hadrat, pg.135)
From this discussion one can deduce that Bay’ah
should be done on the hands of such a person who is worthy and meets with the
criteria of a Murshid.
The various Attributes of Almighty ALLAH are magnified in the Ambiya u
(Prophets), which explains why their conditions are so different. Some Prophets
are Jamaali
(manifesting Divine Mercy) while others are awe-inspiring. Some Prophets u
held royal
positions while others were detached from the world.
The Saints(Radi ALLAH Anh) follow the footsteps of the Ambiya u. Hence, some Saints(Radi ALLAH Anh) are in splendour while others lead an ascetic’s existence. Ghausul A’zam(Radi ALLAH Anh) was very wealthy while Hadrat Ibrahim Adham(Radi ALLAH Anh), after deserting his kingdom, lived austerely. Some Saints are always in the state of Jazb (when the consciousness is overwhelmed by the Majesty of Almighty Allah) and other Saints are in the state of Jazb for a while. In this state of Jazb any rulings of the Sharee’ah are not binding on them. Almighty ALLAH says: “And Moosa fell down unconsciousness”. It is this very unconsciousness that the Awliya(Radi ALLAH Anh) (Saints) inherit from Moosa u. The women of Egypt, in a state of rapture, cut their fingers when they saw Yusuf’s u unique beauty.
Nabi(Peace Be Upon Him) has mentioned, “Three types of people are exempted from the laws of
Sharee’ah - the children, the sleeping and the mentally retarded”. The
Majzoob falls in this Hadith. In that state of unconsciousness they utter the
words like “Anal Haqq” (I am the Truth) (I am Almighty Allah).
At this stage the person has destroyed his ego and is oblivious of his self.
Like the tree which said, “O Moosa, I am Almighty Allah”,
a person that says such words in a state of Jazb is not a transgressor.
The true sign of a Majzoob is that he neither defies
nor refutes the Sharee’ah. In the condition of Jazb (ecstasy), if any unlawful
word or action was manifested, he never instructs others in it.
When someone rebukes him for his words or actions he accepts it without
any debate. Ghausul A’zam(Radi ALLAH Anh) narrates: “A person mentioned to Hadrat Junaid Baghdadi(Radi ALLAH Anh)
that a person in the state of Wajd (religious ecstasy) is like a spinning
millstone. He does not eat or drink anything.
Hadrat Junaid(Radi ALLAH Anh) asked about that person’s conditions during Salaah times. The enquirer
answered that when the Mu’azzin gives Adaan the person becomes calm and
performs his Salaah respectfully. Hadrat Junaid(Radi ALLAH Anh) then
declared that there is no problem, this type of Wajd (religious ecstasy) is a
gift from Almighty Allah”.
DISEASES OF THE SOUL
Various diseases affect the soul. A
perfect Murshid can only treat them. We should study ourselves and upon finding
ourselves affected by any of these ailments, seek a remedy from a perfect
Murshid.
The diseases of the soul are: (1) Showing off (2)
expirty (3) jealousy (4) hate (5) pride (6) love of praise (7) love of status
(8) love of showing off (9) love of fame (10) reverence of the rich (11)
disrespect of the poor (12) following desires (13) flattery (14) ingratitude
(15) greed (16) stinginess (17) desire too much (18) thinking ill (19) hostility
against truth (20) persistence in falsehood (21) convenience (22) rationalizing
laziness (23) breach of trust (24) laziness (25) hard heartedness (26) greed
(27) reliance on creation (28) forgetting the Creator (29) forgetfulness of
death (30) committing sins openly and not fearing Almighty ALLAH
(31) hypocrisy (32) obeying Shaytaan (33) self worship (34) inclination to idle
matter (35) sloth (36) lack of fear of Almighty ALLAH
(37) impatience (38) lack of humility (39) self - wrath in which case the anger
could be used in the Path of Almighty ALLAH
(40) being lax in Almighty Allah’s commands and prohibitions, etc. (Fatawa Afriqa by A’la Hadrat, pg. 129)
Those brothers stepping on the path of Tareeqah
should accept Taqdeer with joy. When
hardship befalls a person as part of the Decree of Almighty ALLAH and one objects directly upon Almighty
ALLAH this will be the death of one’s faith. This
objection is also a destruction of one’s trust in Almighty ALLAH (Tawakkul) and Ikhlaas (sincerity). A person with
Emaan does not ask “why” and “how” in relation to the Will of Almighty ALLAH.
He always accepts the Will of Almighty ALLAH open heartedly.
It is the nature of the Nafs (carnal self) to cross
swords with Taqdeer. Those who wish to conquer and rectify or purify the Nafs
will be engaged in a constant struggle before they are immune to the Nafs. Those
who submit to the Will of Almighty ALLAH
with perseverance are covered with His Y
Bountiful Mercy in this world and in the Hereafter. For the Pleasure of Almighty
ALLAH, one should accept the Tests which come from Him. Patience is a great virtue and a deed of great bravery. Almighty
ALLAH
is indeed with those who are patient. Dear friends, awaken for the sake of
Almighty ALLAH. Do not be oblivious of His Might!
Let us not procrastinate till death is upon us, as it
will be of no avail. We should re-examine and revive our hearts, as the heart is
the centre of our being. If the heart is purified, our whole self is enhanced.
But if the heart is blemished, our body too will decay. The heart can be purged
with abstinence and complete faith in Almighty ALLAH.
We must admonish our own Nafs before assessing
others. A true nominee does not pay
homage to his Nafs or the Shaytaan, nor is he obedient to them. He is not
obsessed with the world and considers it to be lowly. He knows Almighty ALLAH to be the Power of everything. If we need to ask for
something let us talk to Almighty ALLAH.
Is there anything that is not available in the treasures of Almighty Allah?
O Friends! Let us practice piety. We must maintain
the restrictions of the Sharee’ah, constantly fight the Nafs, Shaytaan, and
avoid bad company. Almighty ALLAH
has blessed us with many bounties but we have stopped thanking Him. Where has our appreciation gone? At times, we
credit others for these blessings or consider ourselves deserving of these
blessings. We even utilise His Y Rewards to disobey His Commandments.
We are constantly worried about what to eat, drink,
whom to marry, where to rest, what to amass. These are all ravings of the Nafs.
Where is our anxiety for the state of the heart and our innermost self and the
pleasure been written by Almighty ALLAH
in an absolute and unchangeable manner? Why should we seek something that is not
in our Taqdeer? Is it not self-defeating? Its only when we accept and realize
that we belong to Almighty ALLAH, will the treasures of Almighty ALLAH
become ours.
Wealth and worldly possessions have made people
haughty. Let us get rid of our pride before we are, humiliated and punished. We
should appreciate our possessions. After all, everything that we have has only
been entrusted to us. We are not born to accumulate and enjoy them in the world.
We have to obey Almighty Allah ’s Commands. We should not fool ourselves with empty verbal declarations. Let us
avoid people obsessed with the world and seek the company of the Faqeers.
Friendship with the world obsessed is harmful in every way.
We must strive to acquire the outward (Zahiri) I’lm
and advance to obtain the enlightenment of the inside (Baatini) I’lm. We need
to practice the Sharee’ah, as this is the path that will lead us to Zahiri and
Baatini I’lm. The more we practice on our I’lm, the closer we may get to
Almighty ALLAH.
May Almighty Allah bless us in this world and in the Hereafter and may He
save us from the torment of Jahannam. Aameen. (Al-Fathur-Rabbani)
The Imam Ahmed Raza Academy is an organisation
that was established on the 5th of July 1986 (1406 A.H.) in South Africa with
the sole purpose of serving the Muslim community and to provide some form of academic and spiritual direction to the
Muslims.
The organisation has been named after the great Muslim
scholar and Saint, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Bareilvi(Radi ALLAH Anh),who lived in India between 1856 and 1921, and was
popularly known as
"Ala’ Hadrat" in the Islamic world. Ala’ Hadrat Imam Ahmed
Raza Al-Qaadiri(Radi ALLAH Anh) achieved the status of a versatile scholar and obtained
a high distinction in over 50 branches of learning. On his visit to Makkatul
Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah, Imam Ahmed Raza Al-Qaadiri(Radi ALLAH Anh)
was treated with great
dignity and was conferred the title of "Imam-e-Ahle-Sunnat"
by eminent Ulema. He was also hailed as the Mujaddid or Revivalist of the Century. He acted as a shield against
those who wanted to assault the principles of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah.
As a devout Sufi, Ala’ Hadrat Imam Ahmed
Raza(Radi ALLAH Anh) was awarded the Ijaazah
and Khilafat (Certificate of Spiritual Successorship) in the Qaaderiya
Silsila (Order), as well as in 13 other branches of Sufism. As an
author, Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Al-Qaadiri(Radi ALLAH Anh) has
left to his credit more than a 1 000 books on 50 different subjects ranging from
Tafseer, Logic, Grammar, Literature, Islamic Jurisprudence, Education,
Sociology, Astronomy, Mathematics, Physics, History, Science of History,
Engineering, Biographies, Philosophy, Mysticism to Persian, Arabic, Urdu
and Hindi Literature.
The key aim of the Imam Ahmed Raza Academy
is to promote and propagate the teachings of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah.
In order to achieve this key objective we have dedicated ourselves to
translate, compile, publish and distribute useful Islamic literature, books,
magazines, brochures, periodicals, newsletters, pamphlets, etc. with special
reference to the teachings of Ala’ Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Al-Qaadiri(Radi ALLAH Anh) and his Successors(Radi ALLAH Anh)
In this age of immorality and emergence of corrupted
Sects claiming to be the beacons of salvation, it is our responsibility to save
our society from such wickedness and adopt the correct perspective of Islam
based on the teachings of the Ahle Sunnah. A vital ingredient in this
work is the publication of Sunni literature in English – to which we
have committed ourselves.
We are presently offering a variety of services to
the community on a daily basis, from being a centre for imparting Islamic
education for our children - to issuing Fatawa (Legal Islamic Decrees).
At the same time, in the last few years, we have also developed as an
organisation laying emphasis on the publication of Sunni literature for
the community and have thus far to our credit a regular newsletter – “Raza”
and numerous titles of authentic Sunni books, and we will, Insha-Allah,
be adding more titles each year. We have already designed a set of madressa
textbooks that are being implemented locally and, we are proud to add that these
textbooks have gained international repute. We have also developed a web site (www.raza.co.za)
which is highly information based and is continually being updated.
We need your help not only to retain but promote
our Ahle Sunnah Aqaa’id at a time when we are surrounded and
bombarded by non-Sunni publications, which have corrupted our Aqeedah
and have made deep inroads in the minds of the youth. All such activities in Islam
that helps in promoting Islam constitute an act of Jihad for which there will be an
enormous reward. The celebrated Saint, Hadrat Sheikh Sirri Saqti(Radi ALLAH Anh)
said, “That
person can never become perfect until he does not give preference to Deen over
his personal desires.”
The Imam Ahmed Raza Academy is an
organisation that relies solely on the assistance and Wasila of Sayyiduna
Rasoolullah(Peace Be Upon Him)
and the Fuyooz and Barakaat
of the Awliya Allah, and the support of our well-wishers. Our vision for the future and
our dedication to the mission of Al’a Hadrat Imam Ahmed Raza Al-Qaadiri(Radi ALLAH Anh) has a significant contribution to
be made locally and in the world - a world in which, we pray, that Sunni Islam
dominates. Insha- Allah!