The Captivity of Material Attachments
The teachings of Abdülkadir Geylani point to one of the greatest obstacles encountered on the inner journey of humankind: love of the world. Material attachments, such as wealth and children, can be powerful iron nets for the heart; those who lose themselves in the coils of these attachments weaken their connection with Allah. According to Geylani, true tawalla – turning towards Allah – is only possible by detaching from worldly pursuits; because when the heart is divided by love of the world, the love and union with Allah cannot be fully felt and realized.
Purification of the Heart: Separating from Association
In Sufi thought, Allah Almighty is the sole source of truth who does not accept partners. Therefore, the primary aim of purifying the heart is to rid oneself of worldly desires and dependencies. As Geylani emphasizes, this purification process requires separating from association; familial ties, social status, even personal abilities, if they create expectation in the heart, are obstacles that must be overcome. When the heart sheds all these dependencies, it will be filled with a pure and sincere love for Allah alone; this is essential for the fulfillment of the verse “He loves them, and they love Him.”
The States of Humanity: Wisdom and Silence
Geylani presents the stages of inner development by categorizing people into four different categories. Just as one should stay away from those who act with hewa (desire), one must also be wary of hypocritical scholars who use their tongues but do not act according to their hearts. However, true virtue is silence that comes from the heart; this silence helps a person know themselves and their Lord. A person who speaks little and excels in inner peace is considered a friend of the Most Merciful. Silence is the key to acquiring knowledge and finding the path to salvation; because it brings one closer to Allah by purifying the heart.