The 27th night of Ramadan is considered one of the most sacred nights in Islamic history, as many scholars regard it as Laylat-ul-Qadr. Laylat-ul-Qadr is the glorious night in which the Holy Quran was revealed, and its worship is considered greater than a thousand months.
Keeping this in view, every year on the 27th night of Ramadan, a grand spiritual gathering is held at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, where devotees participate in remembrance of Allah (Dhikr), worship, recitation of Durood and Salutations, and spiritual discussions.
Highlights of the Gathering
1. Special Prayers, Nawafil, and Quran Recitation
- The gathering commenced with the congregational Isha and Taraweeh prayers.
- Throughout the night, special Nawafil (Tahajjud, Salat-ul-Tasbeeh, and other voluntary prayers) were performed to seek Divine blessings.
- A special session of Quran recitation was held, in which the significance of Laylat-ul-Qadr was highlighted.
- Scholars and spiritual mentors explained the meanings of Quranic verses and enlightened worshippers about the virtues of this sacred night.
2. Dhikr (Remembrance) of Ism-e-Allah Zaat “Ya Hoo Ya Hoo” and Ism-e-Mohammad ﷺ
As per the teachings of Sufism, special gatherings of Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) were conducted at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen.
- Dhikr of Ism-e-Allah Zaat “Ya Hoo Ya Hoo”:
- In Sufism, “Ya Hoo” holds a unique spiritual status, as it is considered a special invocation of Allah’s personal name and a means of attaining Divine proximity.
- Devotees engaged in the continuous chanting of “Ya Hoo Ya Hoo” with sincerity and devotion, which became a source of inner peace and spiritual enlightenment.
- Many participants experienced a state of spiritual ecstasy and shared their mystical experiences.
- Dhikr of Ism-e-Mohammad ﷺ:
- To express love and devotion for Prophet Mohammad ﷺ, the special Dhikr of Ism-e-Mohammad ﷺ was conducted.
- Worshippers collectively recited Ism-e-Mohammad ﷺ, which deepens the love for the Holy Prophet ﷺ and purifies the heart.
- Naat reciters presented praises of the Holy Prophet ﷺ, making the atmosphere deeply spiritual and uplifting.
3. Spiritual Discourses, Teachings of Sufism, and Guidance
- In light of the teachings of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Hazrat Sakhi Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman (Madzillah-ul-Aqdas), scholars and Sufi mentors delivered lectures on spirituality and Divine gnosis (Marifat-e-Ilahi).
- The key topics included:
- Virtues and blessings of Laylat-ul-Qadr
- The significance of Ism-e-Allah Zaat and Faqr (the path to inner purification)
- Practical methods for self-purification and soul refinement
- The importance of Sufi orders and the Khanqah system in Islam
Attendees were encouraged not only to worship on this sacred night but also to incorporate the teachings of Sufism and Faqr into their lives for success in both worlds.
4. Special Arrangements for Iftar and Suhoor
- A grand Iftar feast was arranged at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen for all attendees, featuring traditional dishes and beverages.
- After Maghrib prayers, the spiritual gatherings continued throughout the night.
- A special Suhoor meal was also provided, allowing all worshippers to start their fast in a spiritually uplifting environment.
5. Welfare and Charitable Activities
- On this blessed occasion, food, ration supplies, and essential items were distributed among needy and underprivileged individuals.
- Worshippers were educated about the importance of Zakat, Sadaqah (charity), and donations, and encouraged to ensure their contributions reach the deserving.
- Information was shared about various welfare projects initiated by the Khanqah, inviting affluent individuals to participate in philanthropic efforts.
Spiritual Impact and Devotees’ Experiences
This sacred gathering at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen became a source of Divine tranquility, spiritual enlightenment, and closeness to Allah for the attendees.
- Many devotees expressed immense spiritual joy and inner peace after participating in the event.
- Several individuals committed themselves to regularly engaging in the Dhikr of Ism-e-Allah Zaat under the guidance of the Khanqah.
- Some worshippers shared mystical dreams and spiritual experiences they encountered during the night-long prayers and Dhikr gatherings.
Conclusion & Future Spiritual Gatherings
This grand spiritual event was filled with faith, unity, and Divine blessings. Worshippers departed with hearts filled with love for Allah and His Prophet ﷺ, their faces radiating spiritual light and tranquility.
The management of Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen expressed their commitment to continuing such spiritual gatherings in the future so that more people can walk the path of Divine gnosis (Marifat) and Sufism.