Firstly, Adhering to External Rulings
Many individuals entering the Sufi path mistakenly believe that they can focus solely on inner (bâtinī) states while neglecting the outward (zāhirī) religious rules. Abdülkadir Geylânî (q.s.) vehemently rejects this misguided understanding: “Conduct your affairs according to the outward form. This is best for you. Ease lies within it. Your mind does not comprehend the inner realm.” The clear commands and prohibitions of Sharia are the solid foundation of the spiritual edifice. A person cannot choose black and white based on their own desires; they are obligated to adhere to Allah’s external rulings. As long as outward conduct is improved and discipline is gained through worship, it is impossible for the inner realm to be filled with light and for the veils in the heart to open.
The Essence is Not Protected Without the Shell
For those devoted to spirituality, knowledge and divine secrets are an “essence” (lub), while the rules of Sharia and bodily acts of worship are the “shell” that protects this essence. Geylânî (q.s.) establishes this immense balance by saying: “Knowledge is the shell, and action is its essence. The shell stands to protect the essence… Why would it be necessary to protect the essence if there were no oil from it?” Whoever cracks the religious rules (the shell) sacrifices the oil of gnosis within to the theft of Satan and desire. Performing the outwardly declared commands gives light to the external world, while living sincerity belonging to the inner realm illuminates the soul. However, those who claim to be repairing their inner world without strictly adhering to the outward rules are merely deluded dreamers deceiving themselves.
Not Exceeding Boundaries and The Path of Azima
A seeker striving to reach Haq (The Truth) should follow the path of azima (the most solid and uncompromising aspect of the work) instead of seeking concessions (rukhsa). Geylânî (q.s.) criticizes those who distort religious teachings according to their own benefit, saying: “If we had pursued truth and reality with azima, we would not have fallen into this state… Everyone seeks the easy way.” Circling around doubtful boundaries where permissibility and prohibition are unclear (seeking rukhsa) poisons the heart. The true seeker of truth adopts the Qur’an and Sunnah as his compass. He does not accept any discovery or inspiration that does not pass through the scales of Sharia, and he does not deviate from the outward form of religion by a hair’s breadth.