Moving Beyond Formality
Living Islam is not merely about improving outward appearance or mechanically performing formal rituals. Abdülkadir Geylani (q.s.) sternly warns those who adorn their exterior while their inner selves are desolate: “I am not particularly interested in your facade; I don’t look at its development. What is important to me is your essential being.” One cannot progress on the spiritual path simply by wearing a dry cloak or adopting an outwardly ascetic demeanor. If a person’s prayers or fasts do not eradicate pride, envy, and worldly greed from their heart, those acts of worship are nothing more than empty shells. Adhering to the outward aspects of religion is essential, but this is only a tool to lead the heart (essence) to truth.
The Triangle of Knowledge, Action, and Sincerity
The path to breaking free from the outer shell and reaching the essence lies in transforming learned knowledge into sincere action. Geylani (may Allah be pleased with him) summarizes this process as: “Knowledge is the husk; action is its essence.” Having knowledge does not bring anything other than sin to a person unless that knowledge is translated into living it (action). “If there’s no action, then even knowledge is disregarded.” However, action alone is also not sufficient; it too has an essence, which is “sincerity.” An act filled with ostentation (showing off) is worthless in the sight of Allah. Spiritual ascent involves fully performing the outward rulings of Sharia, blending it with the sincerity of the heart (sincerity), and ultimately seeking only the pleasure of Allah in every endeavor.
Marifetullah: Reaching the Essence of the Essence
As acts performed with sincerity purify the heart, the servant progresses through the stages of “Islam” (submission) and “Iman” (faith), reaching the stage of “İkan” (certainty without doubt) and ultimately “Marifetullah” (knowing Allah). The enlightened person who reaches this level reads the names and power of the Creator in every particle of the universe. Their worship is no longer a burden but an immense love born from witnessing the divine beauty. The shell has been shattered, the false self (ego) has vanished, and the servant has found that unique pearl (divine secret) in the depths of their heart. This blessed person, having attained this exalted rank, plunges directly into the sea of intimacy and affection of his Lord, free from all the burdens of the temporal world.