The Superiority of Straightness over Karamat
The biggest misconception for many people entering the Sufi path is to link spiritual evolution to extraordinary (miraculous) occurrences, such as walking on water, flying in the air, or giving news from the unseen – that is, karamat. However, perfect guides have repeatedly emphasized that karamat is a desire pleasing to the nafs (ego), and that the real goal is to strictly adhere (istikamet) to Allah’s commands. Farīd al-Dīn ʻAttār expresses this truth with the striking warning: “Be of straightness, not of karamat, for your nafs desires karamat, while your Lord desires istikamet.” The knowers have emphasized that those pursuing extraordinary abilities are actually at risk of straying from the path, because the greatest virtue is to remain on the line of Divine Approval despite all troubles and hardships.
Extraordinary Occurrences: A Game of the Nafs
A great saint, Yahya bin Muaz-i Razi, one day heard Bayezid-i Bistami praying in prostration throughout the early mornings: “O Lord, a people asked you and you gave them walking on water and flying in the air; they were content with it. I seek refuge in You from this. A people asked for the treasures of the earth, you gave it to them. Again, I seek refuge in You.” This incident shows that those seeking Truth see karamat not as a goal but rather as a trial that can distract one on the spiritual path. Because while the common folk focus on the outward appearance of worship, its reward, and karamat, the elite consider even such extraordinary expectations as veils to be overcome.
True Karamat: Allah’s Grace and Beautiful Character
According to those possessing gnosis (irfan), a person’s true karamat is the wonders and goodness that Allah manifests through them. If beneficial and beautiful character-based actions emerge from a servant that would not have come forth without divine intervention, then this is the greatest karamat. Perfect istikamet consists of being in accordance with commands and morals; there is no higher station than this. A servant who lives for the sake of Allah rejects the praise of people or displays of karamat, aspiring only to the humility (zillet) of fulfilling their servitude (ubudiyet) perfectly; because this humiliation will elevate him to the highest honor in the sight of Allah.