The Accuracy of Discoveries and Errors at the Secondary Level
In Sufi thought, great importance is attached to the discoveries that saints (evliya) attain through divine grace. However, the absolute accuracy of these discoveries is debatable; just as a mujtahid can fall into errors in his ijtihad. The important thing is that the intention of those saints is sincere and they strive to guide people to the right path. Therefore, even if there are errors in their discoveries, these errors are not belittled but are accepted as conjecture, and it is inappropriate to speak ill of them; indeed, one may even earn reward. The critical point here is that those who follow the misguidance of saints are not evaluated in the same position as those who obey mujtahids; because inspiration and discovery are a chain (saned) belonging only to the owner, and cannot be transferred to others.
The Forms of Created Beings and Following the Truth
Those with Sufi depth liken the universe to a mirror. This mirror reflects the manifestations of Allah’s names and attributes. However, these reflected forms do not fully express the truth. Therefore, humans should not get stuck in apparent shapes but should seek the Real beyond matter and space. Important representatives of the Naqshbandi thought also touch on this point: Everything seen, heard, and known is a sign of Him, not He Himself. Therefore, when pursuing the truth, one must avoid being captivated by the allure of the external world and focus on the inner search.
Degrees of Unity of Being and the Limits of Persuasion
Deep concepts such as the Unity of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud) are experienced at different stages of the Sufi journey. However, a maturation is observed over time in the expression of these experiences; views expressed initially may be abandoned in later years. As Imam Rabbani stated, some great souls, in their quest for the inner reality, see the external world among created beings and are granted knowledge of the Unity of Being. This means that those who follow the truth may have different interpretations. The important thing is the sincerity of these interpretations and that they bring a person closer to Allah. Even incorrect statements regarding the Forms of Truth are excusable; because the aim is to try to express the manifestations of God, not to claim absolute truth.