The Expertise of Our Akabir in Knowledge

Thursday, 01 November 2007 17:43

A buzrug, who lived in Dehli, trained his disciple in the field of spirituality. The buzrug prescribed various zikr and other rigorous spiritual exercises. When the disciple attained competence in this field, he sent him to Multaan to preach Islam. The disciple set off with great fervour, zeal and enthusiasm. Whilst on his journey he reached Paanipat, which was on the way to Multaan.

In Paanipat, there was a yogi who used to spiritually 'attack' the hearts and the Imaan of Muslims passing by. This yogi could perform supernatural feats. Thus when the disciple neared Paanipat, the yogi became aware of it and launched an attack on his heart but failed dismally. The yogi confronted the disciple, and asked:

"Who are you? Where are you going? What do you say?"

"I am a Muslim. I am going to Multaan and I say La Ilaha Illallah." When the disciple said, "La Ilaha Illallah," he focused on the yogi's heart resulting in him becoming insane. The yogi fled in haste and 'advised' whomever he met,

"Do not go there! Do not go there! There is a Muslim who is reciting La Ilaha Illallah. Do not listen to this La Ilaha Illallah of his."

Hence this very person, who tried to become an obstruction to deen, became a means of spreading the kalimah.

On the other hand the buzrug, in Delhi, learnt of this incident and became displeased. The disciple also perceived that something was amiss. The spiritual effulgence emanating from his heart had decreased. Therefore, instead of proceeding on his mission, he returned to his spiritual mentor who reproached him.

"I had sent you to preach Islam in Multaan, not on the way to Multaan."

He kept him in his company for another 40 days and thereafter sent him to Multaan, emphasising on preaching Islam in Multaan only. The disciple followed his instructions and went to Multaan where 80 000 people accepted Islam at his hands.

Subsequently we observe that the understanding and attitude of the Muslims, of the past eras was unique.  Whatever strength or capability one possessed, be it physical strength, mental, spiritual ability, financial dominance or status; every quality or possession was used for the benefit of Deen. This world is not a place of enjoyment, comfort or luxury. It is a place of serving the Deen of Allah Ta'ala. Enjoying comforts and luxuries are reserved for the Hereafter.

Today our misconception is that every boon and favour of Allah Ta'ala is solely for us. We have the right to enjoy ourselves and in this delusion, we have forgotten our responsibilities. The bounties, bestowed upon us by Allah Ta'ala, are ordained to assist us in fulfilling these responsibilities. Enjoyment and pleasure have become our primary objectives and that which is our primary duty has been forgotten.

Whichever walk of life we may be engaged, we must endeavour to spread the Deen of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) to the best of our ability. Wherever we may be, whoever may be, everyone should take advantage of every opportunity to disseminate Deen amongst one's wife, children, relatives, friends and the general community. We must be constantly uttering these words that this is Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam)'s teaching for this action and that is Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam)'s teaching for that action.