Recognising The Perfect Spiritual Guide (Saint) of Our Time
The majority of Muslims today believe that Saints like Ghaus-ul-Azam Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA) no longer exist. This mindset is a harmful belief that impedes spiritual progression as it leads to the denial of living Saints and perfect spiritual guides.
Ghaus-ul-Azam used to spiritually bless thousands of seekers each day. The question arises: is there a perfect Saint today who is spreading the same Divine blessings?
Sultan Bahoo’s teachings emphasise that, during times of tribulation, Allah elevates the rank of Saints to guide humanity. Just as Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) was sent to reform a corrupt Arab society, Saints of the present era have been elevated to guide the Muslim umma through current challenges. Quran confirms that Allah’s glory manifests anew every moment, refuting the notion that Saints’ grandeur has diminished over time. Thus, the belief that Saints no longer exist today is a falsehood.
The greatest virtue of a Saint, according to Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman, is their recognition. The reality within a Saint does not die with their physical body but continues to manifest spiritually. The essence of Saints like Ghaus-ul-Azam remains intact in the present era, especially in the figure of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, who embodies the same attributes and qualities.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is the “Shabeeh-e-Ghaus-ul-Azam” (the one who resembles Ghaus-ul-Azam), a title granted to him by the Mohammadan Assembly. His mission parallels that of Ghaus-ul-Azam in reviving faith and guiding people to the path of truth. Both Ghaus-ul-Azam and Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen endured immense trials to make the spiritual journey easier for their disciples, guiding them through the complexities of their era.
One of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s revolutionary contributions is his revelation of the sacred name Ism-e-Mohammad, which was previously concealed. He not only granted the contemplation of this sacred name to seekers but also ensured they had the capacity to benefit from it. Furthermore, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s guidance is distinguished by his efforts to keep his disciples connected to him, such as through regular gatherings, books and various social media platforms.
Some of the challenges faced by Divine seekers today are the physical and financial constraints that prevent them from accessing spiritual guidance. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s approach overcomes these barriers, allowing seekers to remain connected to their spiritual guide regardless of geographical limitations.
In short, the spiritual reality of Ghaus-ul-Azam manifests through Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen today, who is renewing the faith in the present era and guiding seekers to the path of Faqr. His efforts to preserve and spread the teachings of Faqr are a testament to the enduring legacy of Ghaus-ul-Azam and the continued presence of spiritual guides in the world today.
What is the greatest virtue of Ghaus-ul-Azam Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA)?
Sultan-ul-Arifeen Sultan Bahoo (RA) states that Ghaus-ul-Azam would daily grant the rank of Baqa Billah (eternal union with Allah) to three thousand seekers and the presence in Mohammadan Assembly to two thousand. The question arises: is there a perfect Saint present in this era who is spreading the same spiritual blessings as Ghaus-ul-Azam did in his time? Since this is an era of discord, it is often instilled in our minds that Saints of such grandeur no longer exist.
It is unfortunate that a large part of Muslims have adopted the ways of the Israelites. When a prophet would come to the Israelites, they would oppose him throughout his life, but after his passing, they would praise him. However, when a new prophet arrived, they would again oppose him for the rest of his lives. Sadly, the same behaviour is seen among Muslims today. They refuse to accept a living Saint or a perfect spiritual guide, but after their passing, they sing their praises. This mindset is a deadly poison that destroys the spiritual journey.
If you have already formed the belief that Saints do not exist today, then even if a Saint comes before you, you will deny them because your heart has already rejected the possibility. In such a scenario, even if Allah reveals the spiritual rank of the Saint to you, you will reject them. This is similar to how Satan denied the truth. He acknowledged Allah but rejected His vicegerent. Likewise, rejecting a Saint is akin to denying Allah’s vicegerent.
The Grandeur of Saints Reflects Allah’s Glory
This flawed belief is the root cause of the decline of Muslims today. Regarding this, Sultan Bahoo states:
“When trials and tribulations increase, Allah Almighty elevates the rank of the Saints.”
This has also been Allah’s way: the more misguided a nation, the greater the calibre of the prophet sent to them. The most corrupt and destructive society was that of the Arabs. To reform this society, Allah sent Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) to them. Therefore, thinking that this is an era of tribulations and that the status of Saints is not the same anymore is entirely inconsistent with the essence of religion. This notion is also refuted by the Quran. Allah says in Quran:
كُلَّ یَوْمٍ هُوَ فِیْ شَاْنٍۚ
Meaning: Every moment His Glory manifests anew. (55: 29)
The story of Prophet Dhul-Qarnayn shows that the status of Saints is, in fact, a reflection of Allah’s majesty. The holy Quran mentions that when Dhul-Qarnayn built a wall between his nation and Gog and Magog, and the people praised him, he said:
قَالَ هٰذَا رَحْمَةٌ مِّنْ رَّبِّیْ
Meaning: (Dhu al-Qarnayn) said: ‘This is mercy from my Lord.’ (18: 98)
This means that exalting the status of Saints is akin to reflecting Allah’s mercy. Therefore, to diminish the status of Saints (God forbid) is to diminish Allah’s grandeur. The majesty remains the same; only the outward form changes. It is worth pondering: if the essence is the same, then why do we say that its grandeur (God forbid) is no longer the same?
The Everlasting Reality of Saints
Let us now revisit the original question: What is the greatest virtue of Ghaus-ul-Azam?
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman says:
‘The greatest virtue of a perfect Saint is that they are recognised.’
When a perfect Saint passes away, where does the reality that shines within them go? That reality does not die – only the physical body does. As Allah Almighty states:
كُلُّ نَفْسٍ ذَآىِٕقَةُ الْمَوْتِ
Meaning: Every soul is to taste death and then to Us you will be returned. (29: 57)
Someone asked Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen “What is the Nafs (Self)?” He replied:
“The Nafs is this physical body.”
Regarding the true essence of a human being, Abdul Karim Al-Jili (RA) states:
“The essence remains the same from eternity to eternity. It only changes its outward form according to the era.” (Insan-e-Kamil)
Reflect deeply! Where is the spiritual reality of Ghaus-ul-Azam manifesting in the present era? Who is that great personality renewing the faith today as Ghaus-ul-Azam did in his time? Renewal means preserving the essence of the religion while aligning it with the needs of the era, for Allah says, “I am Time.”
Shabeeh-e-Ghaus-ul-Azam
Renewal can be of two types: partial renewal and complete renewal. Who is the one whose temperament resembles that of Ghaus-ul-Azam, whose essence, purity, balance, unbiased thinking, determination in keeping up with the times, guidance and ability to rebuild, reflect the qualities of Ghaus-ul-Azam? Who is the one who is the Shabeeh-e-Ghaus-ul-Azam? Who is the one who has been granted this title from the Mohammadan Assembly?
By Allah, it is our revered Murshid Kareem, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman, who has adorned himself with the essence and attributes of Ghaus-ul-Azam.
Throughout history, certain tasks are Divinely decreed to occur and are inevitable by Allah’s command. If one individual fails to fulfil them, Allah appoints another as a means to accomplish them. For example, it is the duty of all Saints to purify people’s souls so they may attain success. However, some missions are uniquely associated with specific individuals. Allah entrusts these tasks to His chosen ones alone and grants them the ability to carry them out.
There are two such personalities whose deeds have become their eternal legacy and cannot be attributed to anyone else. The first is Ghaus-ul-Azam Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani, and the second is the reviver of this era, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman.
Challenges of the era of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen
The conditions during the time of Ghaus-ul-Azam were almost identical to those in the era of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. On an international level, Muslims are being humiliated. Non-Muslims dominate the world and Muslim governments are in decline. Muslims hold no significant influence. Looking at the scourge of sectarianism, the entire umma is divided into factions upon factions. Every scholar declares others wrong and proves themselves right using the Quran and Hadith.
Everywhere, hypocrisy, immorality, and other inner vices are rampant. Claimants of Sufism and spirituality are found in every corner. Fraudulent spiritual guides are looting people’s faith. These false guides have wreaked havoc in the Islamic world. Now, even women are claiming to be spiritual guides. Remember, Allah says:
یَوْمَ نَدْعُوْا كُلَّ اُنَاسٍۭ بِاِمَامِهِمْ
Meaning: (Call to mind) the Day when We shall call every section of people along with their leaders. (17: 71)
Therefore, it is essential to choose the right Murshid or Imam because, on the Day of Judgment, Allah will summon you along with them. The Murshid should be such that when you stand before Allah with them, you are accepted in His presence.
Where is Ghaus-ul-Azam’s Spiritual Reality Manifest Today?
If the spiritual reality of Ghaus-ul-Azam is manifesting somewhere today, then surely the same extraordinary attributes and accomplishments of Ghaus-ul-Azam must also be evident. Just as the quality of the seed determines the crop, if the essence is that of Ghaus-ul-Azam, then the attributes must also reflect his spiritual stature.
Ghaus-ul-Azam himself endured immense spiritual struggles but freed his disciples from such hardships, making the path of truth easier for them. Similarly, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has borne great trials and tribulations but has made the journey on the path of truth easy for his disciples.
In this context, there are three key aspects, and each subsequent aspect surpasses the previous one.
Before Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, it was forbidden to disclose Ism-e-Azam. However, during his era, concealing it was deemed impermissible. He not only granted Ism-e-Azam to seekers but also endowed them with the capacity to benefit from it. What is this capacity? Let us understand it through an example:
A Saint was engaged in the invocation of Ism-e-Azam when he noticed two angels observing him from a distance. He invited them to join him in the invocation. The angels replied, “We do not have the capacity for this.”
Through Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, numerous people have received Ism-e-Azam. However, to this day, no one has ever reported any adverse effects or claimed that its impact turned negative.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Grants Ism-e-Azam Without Bayah
Typically, a Murshid with spiritual authority does not grant the recitation practices of their Sufi order to anyone without formal bayah, and history records no such precedence. However, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen bestows Ism-e-Azam even without bayah.
People have always known about Ism-e-Azam, despite whether received it from a spiritual guide or not. However, a treasure more profound than Ism-e-Azam, unknown to most and limited to the Perfect Saints, is the Ism-e-Mohammad. This sacred name was granted exclusively to the umma of the Holy Prophet
Revealing Ism-e-Mohammad
Since Ism-e-Mohammad bestows the state of Baqa, it was only conferred upon those fortunate enough to attain annihilation in Allah. It is said that if Mansur Al-Hallaj had been granted Ism-e-Mohammad, he would not have stumbled. Other ummas were not granted this sacred name because they were not able to attain complete immortality with the Divine. This special blessing belongs solely to the Holy Prophet (pbuh).
Could there be an easier path than this? Is this not the manifestation of the same excellence as that of Ghaus-ul-Azam? Everything has been revealed to the seekers; all that remains now is for them to walk the path. However, no one can be forcibly dragged onto the path of truth, as that would constitute compulsion in religion. Therefore, walking the path must be one’s own effort.
When Ghaus-ul-Azam accepted someone as his disciple, he never abandoned them. Instead, he ensured they remained connected to him in one way or another, enabling their spiritual ranks to continuously advance. This is similar to a traveller who, if remains aboard a boat, eventually reaches the shore. The key is to stay on the boat. It is then up to the sailor to keep the traveller connected so they do not leave the vessel.
The ranks of a Sarwari Qadri Perfect spiritual guide are continually elevated by the command of the Holy Prophet. Thus, when a seeker remains connected to the guide, their spiritual status also continues to ascend accordingly.
A Perfect Spiritual Guides Always Supervises his Disciples
There is an account of Ghaus-ul-Azam where he was delivering a sermon. During the discourse, he made a statement. A person stood up, saying, “I will not believe it unless this secret is revealed to me.” Ghaus-ul-Azam replied, “And if it is revealed, then what?” The man responded, “Take everything from me and cast me out of this gathering.” Ghaus-ul-Azam called him close, held his hand, and immediately the secret was unveiled to him. However, the man became fearful, thinking that now everything would be taken from him. Ghaus-ul-Azam reassured him, saying, “When we take someone’s hand, we do not abandon them.”
The easier approach would have been to accept someone as a disciple and leave it at that. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, there are many deceitful and fraudulent so-called spiritual guides who take someone as a disciple only to exploit them financially for years. They neither train their disciples, guide them to the straight path, nor maintain a genuine connection with them.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s Way of Connecting with Disciples
Now, let us discuss how Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen keeps his disciples connected to him. In fact, I would say that the way he has excelled in this regard is unparalleled by any other Saint.
There are certain questions whose answers themselves unveil the underlying truth. For instance:
– What is the purpose of the spiritual gatherings held monthly by Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen?
– Why is the weekly “Bazm-e-Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen” conducted?
– What is the wisdom behind Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen residing at the Khanqah from Friday to Sunday and often extending his stay for one or two weeks?
– Why are caravans sent to various cities for invitation and preaching, encouraging people to come to Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s blessed court?
– What is the reason behind the extensive arrangements for accommodation and meals at the Khanqah?
– What is the objective of establishing Masjid-e-Zahra?
– Why were so many departments set up under the banner of Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr?
– Why are various accounts created on Facebook, Quora, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Threads, X and other social media platforms and why are seekers of Allah assigned to manage these accounts?
– What is the purpose of publishing Mahnama Sultan-ul-Faqr, printing numerous books, and spreading the message of truth to every corner of the world through websites?
– Why are so many individuals engaged in various tasks within these departments?
The answer to all these questions is the same: it is all to ensure that disciples and seekers of Allah remain connected to Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen.
This is the manifestation of the essence of Ghaus-ul-Azam.
Bayah can be of Two Types
In the matter of bayah, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen followed the revolutionary steps of Syedna Ghaus-ul-Azam. The practice of bayah was initiated by the Holy Prophet. Later, the Rashidun Caliphs continued this tradition. However, after Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), the form of bayah was altered.
This change occurred because rulers at the time misunderstood the purpose of bayah, fearing that it was being taken against them. They believed that the right to bayah belonged exclusively to them. When Imam Hassan Basri (RA) received the sacred trust from Ali (RA), the practice of bayah was modified to avoid political conflict. Instead of bayah, the practice of granting a belonging of the Murshid began. When a spiritual guide accepted a seeker as their disciple, they would give them something like a shawl, garment, turban, or prayer mat. This practice continued for a long time, and people started treading the spiritual path secretly.
However, without bayah, the journey could not even begin, let alone be completed. In the era of Ghaus-ul-Azam, he appeared with such grandeur that he restored the original form of bayah. This restoration was necessary because people had been pursuing this path in secrecy out of fear. Once Ghaus-ul-Azam reinstated the original method of bayah, people were able to walk this path openly and with ease.
Similarly, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has taken a revolutionary step in this tradition, following the footsteps of Syedna Ghaus-ul-Azam.
Movement Across Borders
The challenges of the era and time of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen differ significantly from those of the past. In earlier times, seekers of Allah would set out to find a perfect spiritual guide without the constraints of borders. Movement across borders was free, and if a seeker heard of a guide in another country, they could reach them on foot without incurring expenses. However, in today’s world, if a Saint resides in another country, seekers require passports, visas, return tickets, and in some cases, nationality of the host country to stay there. The current processes are so costly that 90% of people would need to sell all their assets and savings, and even then, they might not afford to travel abroad.
Challenges Faced by Women
Women face even greater challenges. A woman who yearns for Allah cannot easily travel to another city, let alone another country, and often cannot venture alone even within her own city. Although the original form of bayah was restored during the era of Syedna Ghaus-ul-Azam, such challenges still act as shackles for seekers in the modern era. There was a pressing need for a solution that could simplify these difficulties and make the path of Faqr more accessible.
Introducing Online Bayah
Just as Ghaus-ul-Azam simplified bayah, enabling those who sought this path to embark on it easily, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, in his elevated spiritual station and out of concern for the umma, introduced an unprecedented and revolutionary step to remove these hurdles by introducing Online bayah.
This facility of Online bayah is a transformative initiative that will aid seekers in traversing this path for generations to come. The concept of remote bayah is rooted in the Quran and Hadith. For example, recall the event of Bayah-e-Rizwan, during which the Holy Prophet (pbuh0 took bayah of Uthman ibn Affan (RA) in his absence. Thus, bayah has two forms: one restored by Syedna Ghaus-ul-Azam and the other by Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen.
Even non-Muslims have acknowledged the significance of this initiative. Sheffield University published a research article praising this innovative step. Online bayah is a revolutionary contribution that has resolved modern-day difficulties, making the spiritual journey much more accessible to seekers across the globe.
Reviving Sufism
When Syedna Ghaus-ul-Azam assumed the responsibility of spiritual guidance and instruction, numerous sects had emerged within the domain of Sufism. Ghaus-ul-Azam clarified the truth so distinctly that these sects dissipated on their own. Similarly, when Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, assumed the responsibility of spiritual guidance and instruction, the situation was dire. Every individual with a minimal understanding of Sufism claimed to be a spiritual guide.
The state of affairs was such that Sufism had devolved into a mere business. This misuse of Sufism caused the general public to fear the path of spirituality, and those genuinely seeking it often fell into the clutches of exploiters who looted their faith. Women and even palm-readers had begun to pose as spiritual guides. Sufism had been distorted to appear as something separate from sharia, and self-proclaimed spiritual leaders were declaring even un-Islamic practices as permissible.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen waged a resolute and intense spiritual jihad against these innovations and polytheistic practices, tailored to the needs of the present era. He endured significant hardships in this struggle. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen did not spare a single distortion introduced by these so-called spiritual guides. He meticulously purified and distinguished the essence of Mohammadan Faqr from these false additions, presenting it in its pristine and clear form.
Moreover, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen trains his disciples in such a way that wherever they go, they become embodiments of Inspired Knowledge. Through their speech and conduct, they reform the beliefs and morals of the public. Observers are left in awe, exclaiming: “If this is the state of the disciple, then what would the Murshid be like?” This unparalleled methodology has re-established the sanctity and truth of the path of Faqr, restoring public confidence in genuine spirituality.
Spiritual Rank of Ghaus-ul-Azam
A common misconception is that Ghaus-ul-Azam only delivered sermons and authored a few books. One must ponder whether these two actions alone were sufficient to achieve everything attributed to him. His renowned declaration, “My foot is on the neck of all Saints,” reflects his unparalleled spiritual status. Every Saint who attains a rank or station in Divine court must also prove it through their actions. Regarding this, Allah Almighty states:
رِجَالٌ صَدَقُوْا مَا عَاهَدُوا اللّٰهَ
Meaning: (Amongst the believers) men proved true what covenant they made with Allah. (33: 23)
This means that Saints not only receive Sainthood from Allah but also demonstrate their worthiness of it before the people. Similarly, Ghaus-ul-Azam proved that his spiritual declaration of having his foot on the necks of all Saints of the past and present was justified. He established an intellectual, spiritual, and reformative organisation. While there are different accounts regarding the name of this organisation, it roughly translates to “The Organisation of Saints of the Religion.” Only sincere disciples were included in this organisation, and specific principles were laid out for its functioning. Since Ghaus-ul-Azam’s mission was to revive the true religion across the Muslim world, he prepared a large number of disciples and dispatched them to various countries.
Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr
Following in the footsteps of Ghaus-ul-Azam, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, founded the Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr. The purpose of both organisations is the same, though their methods differ slightly.
Ghaus-ul-Azam would prepare disciples and bless them with Inspired Knowledge before sending them to different countries. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen observed the modern-day mediums of communication across various countries and identified the most effective social media platforms for spreading the message. He shortlisted these platforms and trained disciples to manage them. Through these platforms, the message of Mohammadan Faqr is being widely disseminated globally.
Every day, these forums invite people to the path of Faqr. Disciples from specific countries manage the platforms used in their respective regions. This demonstrates the vast scale at which Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is spreading the teachings of Faqr.
Title of Muhiyuddin
Now let us see how these two great personalities revived the true spirit of Islam. A well-known incident about Ghaus-ul-Azam recounts that while travelling, he encountered a frail and weak old man on the road. The man pleaded with him to relieve his weakness. With just a glance, Ghaus-ul-Azam instantly restored his health. The man then said, “I am the religion of Islam. I had become frail, but you have given me new life. Henceforth, your title shall be ‘Muhiyuddin’ (The Reviver of Islam).” From that moment, this title became widely recognised.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Spread Awareness about Faqr
In the present era, people are unaware of the essence of Islam, which is Faqr. This is not limited to the general public but extends even to scholars. Through the grace of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, it was revealed that Islam has an essence, and that essence is Faqr. The condition of the scholars was such that wherever Faqr was mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, they translated it as poverty and destitution.
An example of this misunderstanding is evident in the following verse of the Quran:
اَلشَّیْطٰنُ یَعِدُكُمُ الْفَقْرَ
Meaning: Satan makes you afraid of Faqr. (2: 268)
The Quran states that Satan instils fear of Faqr, but translators rendered it as fear of material poverty. This misrepresentation reflects the state of the scholars at the time. To revive the essence of Islam, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen endured indescribable hardships. His immense efforts have yielded remarkable results, visible to all. He launched a movement to spread the essence of Islam in such a way that anyone wishing to learn about Faqr can now access this knowledge from any corner of the world. For genuine seekers, Faqr is no longer hidden. It is also a fact that the system he established will continue to reveal the truth of Faqr until the Day of Judgment.
Ghaus-ul-Azam initiated a revolution whose effects are still evident today. Similarly, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, following in his footsteps, carefully examined the flaws within the Muslim umma and identified the root cause of their downfall. Ultimately, he pointed to one fundamental issue: purgation of the Self (Nafs).
Muslims had become afflicted with various moral and spiritual diseases, such as dishonesty, arrogance, jealousy, vanity, hypocrisy, anger, malice, hatred, and heedlessness. A moral decline was prevalent in every sphere of life, leaving no group unaffected. Their individual lives were largely devoid of the light of Quran and Sunna, and instead, filled with innovations and superstitions. The time demanded a revolution that would purify their Self.
Inspired Knowledge
Thus, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen began, like Ghaus-ul-Azam, to eradicate the effects of ignorance from people’s mental, moral, and social lives. To achieve this purpose, he established Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, a spiritual centre where seekers of Allah from distant places come to undergo purgation and purification of the Self under his spiritual guidance.
When Ghaus-ul-Azam appeared, the righteous people of the time were largely inclined toward asceticism. He abolished monasticism, redirecting people toward a balanced life in accordance with the teachings of Islam. Similarly, when Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen assumed the responsibility of spiritual guidance and instruction, there were very few individuals calling people to the straight path. Among those who did, many promoted asceticism, interpreting detachment from the world as physically isolating oneself for the sole purpose of worship.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen also proved himself to be Shabeeh-e-Ghaus-ul-Azam in this matter. The steps he took to renew this understanding are countless, but one exemplary instance illustrates this well. Many men and women, who pledged allegiance to him, when he blessed them with inspired knowledge, they expressed a desire to leave everything behind and live in his presence. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen strictly prohibited such an approach, emphasising instead that true success lies in living in the world without letting it settle in one’s heart, rather than abandoning it entirely.
A true Sufi aligns their practices with the temperament of the people they guide. Just as a merchant stocks goods based on the needs of the buyer, even if it entails personal hardship. Ghaus-ul-Azam delivered sermons and authored books tailored to the mindset of his era. Similarly, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has adopted methods aligned with the inclinations of people in today’s world, ensuring his message resonates universally.
Brief Summary of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s Revolutionary Work
If we sketch an outline of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s work, it can be summarised as follows:
– Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen analysed the current era to identify where ignorance has infiltrated, its roots, and the state of Islam.
– He then determined where immediate action was required and what could be addressed gradually, aiming to eradicate ignorance and ensure individual reform that would lead to a collective revival of Islamic life.
– Through his teachings and companionship, he is transforming people’s thoughts and aligning their minds with the principles of Islam.
– He is breaking the stagnation of inaction and inspiring people to engage in righteous deeds.
– In this way, he is rebuilding the foundation of Islam so that its essence remains intact and it can continue to lead the world.
– By focusing on individual training, he is paving the way for the revival and prominence of Islam.
Like Ghaus-ul-Azam, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is leading a global movement, not limiting this great blessing to just one country.
In the first century, the perfect Sufi who transformed the course of history was Ghaus-ul-Azam. In this century, the one who has revived the system of Sufism is Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. He has rejuvenated the soul of Islam and continues to do so, leaving behind such literature and knowledge that the reality of Mohammadan Faqr can never be concealed until the Day of Judgment.
What can be attained from the company of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen cannot be acquired from anywhere else in the world. Those who have received the blessing of Faqr from Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen can bear witness to this truth.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has Revised the Essence of Islam
When Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen assumed the responsibility of spiritual guidance, the educated segment of society believed that the religion of Prophet Mohammad was outdated and not applicable to the modern era (God forbid). However, through his training and guidance, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen revived the spirit of the early days of Islam, reminiscent of the piety and dedication of the Companions and Tabi’een (people who followed the Companions).
Those blessed with spiritual insight cannot help but admire the presence of such a towering personality among them. Through his actions and teachings, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen clarified that spreading the message of Islam universally requires utilising all modern platforms and tools.
The books authored by Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen reflect a unique style, profound ideas, and meticulous research, untouched by the corrupt environment of the society in which they were written. These works, while exploring their pages, convey no influence of the prevailing hedonism, materialism, violence, oppression, chaos, and immorality of the surrounding environment.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is igniting a new light in the hearts and minds of the youth, creating a renewed sense of freedom and spiritual awareness. In doing so, he has laid the foundation for a new world of enlightenment.
According to Allama Iqbal
As Allama Iqbal aptly said:
جہان تازہ کی افکار تازہ سے ہے نمود
کہ سنگ و خشت سے ہوتے نہیں جہاں پیدا
اپنی دنیا آپ پیدا کر اگر زندوں میں ہے
سر آدم ہے ضمیر کن فکاں ہے زندگی
Jahan-e-taaza ki afkaar-e-taaza se hai namood
Ke sang-o-khisht se hotay nahin jahan paida
Apni duniya aap paida kar agar zindon mein hai
Sar-e-Aadam hai zameer-e-Kun Fakaan hai zindagi
Explanation: True progress and creation come from fresh ideas and inner vision, not material things. It encourages individuals to take control of their destiny, shape their own world, and realise their potential through creativity and conscience. The essence of life is rooted in the ability to transform one’s surroundings with new perspectives, much like the Divine command of creation.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen (RA) cleared away the layers of misconceptions that had accumulated over centuries, dismantling the rigid moulds of false beliefs. From the rubble of these outdated constructs, he unearthed and presented to the world the true and eternal treasure of Faqr.
A general invitation is extended to all: with sincerity, devotion, and conviction, become a disciple of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. In this era and all eras to come, until the Day of Judgment, if anyone seeks Divine gnosis, it will undoubtedly be attained through Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s gateway. Therefore, hold firmly to this sacred path with utmost dedication, bow your head in supplication, and pray:
“O Almighty! Grant me a single drop from the ocean of Divine gnosis.” Ameen.
How do you connect with a Saint?
Majority of Muslims today believe that Saints no longer exist in our time. This is the prime reason why they do not strive to find a spiritual guide. Unfortunately, the pseudo spiritual guides have tainted this sacred path and have played a key role in making people turn away from the essence of Islam i.e. Faqr. But this does not mean that perfect Saints (Murshid) do not exist in this era. This is false belief. Allah’s Saints have always existed and will always be present in the world to guide mankind towards the essence of Islam.
In order for someone to find a perfect Murshid they just need to make a genuine effort and Allah then opens up the ways for them to reach the Universal Divine Man of their era. The Universal Divine Man of era or the perfect Saint is Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman who is spreading the beneficence of Faqr.
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