The Dangers of a Journey Without Guidance
Embarking on a journey into the ocean of Sufism alone is like setting sail for an ocean filled with whirlpools and storms of devils without a compass. In the battle against one’s own nafs (ego), a qualified “guide” is needed who will show them their ailments and break their arrogance. Shaykh Geylani (q.s.) explains this truth with the words: “He who does not associate with those who are scholars and act according to their knowledge, is nothing but dried mud… Seek Him with whom you converse in truth.” However, in today’s environment where imposters claiming to be guides can be found on every corner, finding a true guide is a very difficult matter for the common person.
The Golden Prescription at Tahajjud Time
Hazrat Abdülkadir Geylani offers a practical and immense spiritual prescription to those who wish to find that perfect human being who will lead them to Allah: “When the darkness of night covers the surroundings, when the voices of people subside and they sleep, rise. Perform ablution and pray two rak’ahs (units) of prayer. And say: ‘O Allah, show me a righteous one among Your servants, one who finds nearness to Your Essence. Let him guide me to You and show me the path leading to Your Essence.'” This supplication ensures that the seeker finds their guide not through their own intellect, desires, or flashy advertisements, but directly through Allah’s grace. For only Allah knows who is truly His friend.
Submission and Guidance to the Right Path
That silent and sincere weeping in the darkness of night does not go unanswered. When the heart is filled with this sincerity, Allah will surely create a means for it and direct it to someone worthy of true guidance. The seeker who finds that blessed guide then dissolves in their upbringing, tramples on their arrogance, and through those compassionate hands, is firmly led to the door of union (meeting) with Allah.