Sources of Man's Thoughts

The Shaykh was of the opinion that transient ideas (khāṭirāt) which flash across the mind originate from any one of the following sources: (1) nafs (lower soul), (2) shayṭān (Devil), (3) rūḥ (Spirit), (4) malak (angel), (5) 'aql (intellect-reason), (6) yaqīn (certitude). Ideas which owe their origin to the lower soul and the Devil lead man astray; those arising out of the Spirit and generated by angels are the genuine and truthful ideas and lead one to the path of righteousness and piety. Ideas that are created by reason may be either good or bad. A discriminating eye alone can make the distinction. Ideas that emanate from certitude are the source of spiritual solace and come to the saints, martyrs, and truthful people. The development of a man's spiritual personality ultimately depends on the care and meticulousness with which he analyzes the source of such transient ideas (Ghunyat alṭālibīn, 220-22). 22 The Shaykh laid down ten principles for the guidance of those who wished to lead a life of piety: (1) Abstain from speaking ill of an absent person. (2) Refrain from developing a suspicious attitude against anybody. (3) Abstain from gossip and whispering. (4) Abstain from looking at things prohibited. (5) Always utter the truth. (6) Always be grateful to God. (7) Spend money in helping people who deserve help. (8) Abstain from running after worldly power and status. (9) Offer five time prayers regularly. (10) Follow the Sunnah of the Prophet and cooperate with Muslims (Ghunyat, 275-76).

While developing his views about the path of spiritual progress, the Shaykh highlights the role of a spiritual mentor. He compares the spiritual teacher to a wet nurse who feeds the baby (Futūḥ al-ghayb, trans. Ahmad, 54). The Shaykh is needed only so long as one is infested with low desires and mean purposes. When one overcomes these baser appetites, the need for the Shaykh also disappears (Futūb al-ghayb, 54). What follows from this discourse is that although the guidance of a spiritual master is absolutely indispensable in the early stages of one's spiritual career, it is not required for all of one's life. Once the Shaykh has weaned a disciple away from earthly attractions, the need of his guidance comes to an end.

 

 

 

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