Main Topic
Understanding free choice (ikhtiyar) versus predestination (taqdeer), the essence of spiritual reformation (tasawwuf), the correct method of making Dhikr of Kalima Tayyibah, and preparing effectively for Ramadan.
Key Lessons
- Taqdeer and Choice: Humans cannot use taqdeer as an excuse for neglect or sin because no one has read their decree beforehand; Allah Ta'ala granted humanity the power of choice (ikhtiyar) and the ability to execute it.
- Essence of Tasawwuf: Spiritual development requires actively removing obstacles (such as the nafs, environment, or family pressure) to fulfill divine commands (ma'mur biha) and stay away from prohibitions (manhi anha).
- Seeking Spiritual Guidance: Unlike general dawah work, tasawwuf involves no forceful recruitment (tashkil). A seeker must independently seek a Sheikh with whom they share spiritual affinity (munasabat).
- Purpose of Islah: A Sheikh's stern reprimand or public correction serves to jolt the seeker and break spiritual roadblocks; true seekers appreciate this concern rather than taking offense.
- Purification through Dhikr: Reciting La ilaha illallah with proper presence and method purifies the heart (tahir) by expelling creation and adorns it (tayyib) with the presence of the Creator.
- Seclusion in Ramadan: I'tikaf and Ramadan require isolation from unnecessary social mixing (ikhtilat) to foster a pure, direct connection with Allah Ta'ala.
Quranic/Hadith References
- Quranic reference regarding remembering Allah Ta'ala while standing, sitting, and lying down on one's sides.
Practical Advice
- Perform the Dhikr of La ilaha illallah intentionally: bring La from below the navel to cut the impulses of the nafs, move Ilaha across to the spirit, throw ghairullah (other than Allah) over the shoulder, and firmly strike Illallah into the heart.
- Avoid unnecessary social gatherings (ikhtilat) during Ramadan and I'tikaf, focusing on personal spiritual seclusion.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb