From the Common Folk to the Chosen
In Islamic Sufism, believers attain various levels based on the degree of their faith, sincerity in worship, and purity of heart. Fulfilling the outward rules of Sharia is the first duty of every Muslim. However, when a servant perseveres in sincere worship, overcomes their ego and Satan, they embark on a spiritual journey from the common folk (avam) to the select group (havass). Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani (q.s.) announces that true humanity comes with the union of the light of faith, the illumination of piety, and Divine love in the heart, and that after this stage begins the station of “Abdaliyyah” (Bedel). Abdals are the invisible spiritual pillars of the earth; their existence averts calamities.
Characteristics of Abdals and Submission to Allah
Perfect saints who attain the description of Abdal have completely detached themselves from their personal will, worldly expectations, and ego. They have melted into the Will of Allah, submitting only to His decree, as if “dead.” “Abdals are inherently good. They are the select of the elect. There is no station beyond servitude like theirs.” These great individuals consider the command of Islam before undertaking even the smallest task, then wait for Divine inspiration that comes directly into their hearts. Their eating, drinking, and walking are not according to their desires but entirely through the manifestation of Allah’s will. Allah has bestowed upon them a tremendous spiritual power to lighten the burden of humanity.
The Station of Kutub: The Spiritual Caliph of the Prophet
The station that surpasses even the station of Abdaliyyah and is considered the pinnacle of sainthood is the station of “Kutubiyyah” (Kutub). Al-Jilani (q.s.) describes this level as the “end of states.” When a saint attains the state of Kutub, Allah takes pride in him; introduces him to angels, jinn, and all the spiritual realms. The Kutub is, so to speak, the spiritual vizier and deputy of our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). “He undertakes the affairs of the people with this state. He possesses equivalent faith to all people in this state.” The administration of the earth, the establishment of spiritual justice, and the guidance of servants are accomplished through the grace and power of this great individual.
Evading Fame and Serving Humanity
The most prominent characteristic of those who attain these tremendous spiritual stations is humility and avoidance of fame. They avoid demonstrating miracles and drawing people’s attention, seeking refuge in secluded places. For their sole aim is to gain the favor of the Creator, not the applause of creation. A servant who attains the level of Kutub or Abdal offers his spiritual wealth to the service of humanity; he provides remedies for their sorrows and draws them out of the swamp of deviation. Without this army of elect, the order of the earth would be disrupted, and humanity would drown in the darkness of ignorance.