The Limits of Praise and the Inspiration Needed
The words of ʿAbd al-Qādir al-Gīlānī strikingly express the depth of the sense of praise (ḥamd) that a person feels toward Allah. He begins by confessing his own helplessness; he emphasizes that the human tongue and intellect are inadequate to fully express the true praise due to the Lord. At this point, al-Gīlānī points to the one who offers the most beautiful praise, the person who has understood the essence of the Divine Names (asmāʾ) and Attributes (ṣifāt), as an example, directing us toward the search for inspiration. The true path of tawhid (the oneness of God) and surrender begins when a person transcends himself and is illuminated by the love of his Lord. On this path, it is necessary to overcome the obstacles of the nafs (the lower self) and to undergo an inner transformation.
The Struggle Against the Nafs and Attaining Inner Tranquility
In al-Gīlānī’s teachings, the reformation of the nafs holds great importance. The nafs is depicted as a constantly opposing force; it tends to create unrest and confusion. Therefore, to struggle (jihād) against the nafs, that is, to purify oneself from its evil, is a necessity. To be among the people of jihād is the prerequisite for being able to perform acts of worship with love. Only at the end of this struggle can one rely on the nafs; then, true tranquility and peace can flourish in the hearts. Rather than leaving the nafs in the hands of the people, following the example of Prophet Ibrāhīm (Abraham), withdrawing it and purifying it from personal desires is among the important steps toward attaining spiritual maturity.
Surrender with Patience and the Gates of Divine Assistance
Al-Gīlānī’s words once again remind us of the importance of patience (ṣabr) and surrender in the face of the manifestations of destiny. In order not to extinguish the light of iman (faith), and to preserve tawakkul (reliance upon God) and ikhlas (sincerity), it is essential to meet every event that befalls us with riḍā (contentment with God's decree). Being patient attracts Allah’s help; it is a step on the path to the blessings of the Hereafter. Those who maintain this patience are honored with the title of “Hero.” To progress on the path of truth throughout one’s life and to receive Divine assistance, it is necessary to cling to Him, to seek refuge in His existence, and to awaken from the sleep of heedlessness. The path of surrender is paved with patience, and those who proceed on this path reach the truth by Allah’s grace.