Two-Winged Flight: The Foundations of a Spiritual Journey
The spiritual journey is the most challenging and rewarding expression of the desire to draw closer to Allah. The teachings of Shaykh Abdülkadir Geylânî offer an important guide for those progressing on this path, regarding the obstacles they encounter and the stages they must overcome. In this journey, one must both sever their attachment to the worldly self and endure trials with patience; for these two elements are like the wings of spiritual flight. Either be close to Allah or strive to reach Him! This striving begins with abandoning worldly desires and pleasures, followed by patiently enduring the difficulties that follow.
Abandoning the Self: The Importance of Asceticism and a Steadfast Will
Asceticism (Zühd) is not merely refraining from material possessions; it also means abandoning selfish desires and inclinations. Geylânî’s teachings emphasize that asceticism is only the starting point, and the most important thing is to possess a steadfast will to overcome the challenging obstacles of the self. Being an enemy to one’s own nafs (self) and opposing one’s whims includes a person among those who are qualified for sainthood (wilayat), perfect servants (abdals), and gnostics (arifs). In this process, abandoning one’s destiny and simply obeying the command attracts divine grace and contributes to spiritual elevation. The meaning of asceticism is that a person should not be a slave to their desires but rather submit to the Divine will.
Patience in Adversity: The Wisdom Behind Trials
Life’s tribulations are trials, and these trials are shaped by Allah’s wisdom towards His servant. In times of adversity (belâ), do not return to the worldly attachments you abandoned in the past; for this will lead you into an even deeper darkness. Instead, see the affliction as a warning sent by Allah. Do not forget that beauty such as sustenance and forgiveness may be hidden behind this difficulty. Enduring adversity with patience serves as a means of drawing closer to Allah, while also enabling one to attain happiness in this world and the Hereafter.