The Deception of External Appearance
One of the most common mistakes in the Sufi path and Islamic life is trying to conform only to an outward appearance of piety or asceticism, instead of correcting one’s inner world (heart, intention). Abdülkadir Geylânî (q.s.) strongly criticizes this formalism: “O son! Deception cannot be achieved with your hypocrisy, eloquent speech, beautiful words from the tongue, the paleness of your face; nor is it attained by donning a patched robe, bringing the shoulders together and bending the waist.” For someone whose inside is full of hypocrisy, pride, and envy to claim closeness to Truth by bowing his neck, dressing like a dervish, or using very ornate religious words is the greatest masquerade of Satan.
The Priority of Inner Purification
True spirituality begins with purifying the heart from fleeting desires, ostentation (subtle shirk), and love of the world. Hazrat Geylânî warns those who fall prey to formalism, saying, “Know that the deeds you do with such an assumption come from your nafs (ego), Satan, associating people with Truth, and expecting worldly gain from them.” If the purpose of wearing a patched robe or formally attending dhikr gatherings is for people to say, “How pious he is!” then that robe is no different than a piece of hellish wood loaded onto one’s shoulders. Religion is not a shell; without sincerity, the outward form (the shape of actions) has no value.
True Gnostics Who Conceal Their Secrets
In contrast to formalism, perfect saints and those possessing gnosis conceal their inner worlds. Geylânî (q.s.) advises, “Keep matters pertaining to your inner world secret. Continue in the state of secrecy until you are told, ‘Tell about your Lord’s blessing!’” thus indicating that true piety should not be made a show. A chest filled with gold does not need paint on its exterior. Those who are preoccupied with their own faults and conceal their sincerity from the gaze of the people are the most shining sincere stars in the sight of God.