Sultan ul Ashiqeen, a prominent Sufi spiritual leader, offers profound insights into the challenges posed by modern materialism and how Sufism provides a meaningful response to these challenges. His teachings emphasize that while materialism focuses on the external and transient aspects of life, Sufism invites individuals to seek a deeper, more spiritual connection that transcends worldly pursuits.
Understanding Modern Materialism
Sultan ul Ashiqeen defines modern materialism as a worldview that prioritizes the physical and tangible aspects of existence, often at the expense of spiritual values. He explains that materialism fosters a culture where success is measured by wealth, status, and possessions, leading to a sense of emptiness and disconnection from the divine. “Materialism,” he says, “is a deception that lures the soul into believing that fulfillment can be found in the accumulation of worldly goods. It blinds the heart to the true purpose of life, which is to know and love Allah.”
He observes that in the modern world, people are increasingly driven by the desire for more—more wealth, more power, more recognition. This endless pursuit, however, often leads to spiritual impoverishment. “In chasing after the fleeting pleasures of this world, we lose sight of the eternal realities,” Sultan ul Ashiqeen warns. “Materialism creates a void in the heart that can never be filled with worldly things. True contentment and peace come only from the remembrance of Allah.”
The Sufi Path: A Counter to Materialism
Sultan ul Ashiqeen teaches that Sufism offers a powerful counter to the allure of modern materialism. At its core, Sufism is a path of inner purification and spiritual awakening that emphasizes the love of God and the detachment from worldly attachments. He explains that the Sufi path encourages individuals to look beyond the material and to focus on the inner journey toward God. “The Sufi way is a return to the essence of our being,” he says. “It is a journey from the outward distractions of the world to the inner realities of the heart, where the light of Allah resides.”
One of the key principles of Sufism is Zuhd, or detachment from the world. Sultan ul Ashiqeen clarifies that this does not mean abandoning the world entirely but rather not allowing worldly possessions and desires to dominate one’s heart. “Zuhd is about placing the world in your hands, not in your heart,” he explains. “A Sufi may possess wealth, but wealth does not possess the Sufi. The heart remains free, devoted only to Allah.”
Spiritual Practices as an Antidote to Materialism
Sultan ul Ashiqeen emphasizes the importance of spiritual practices in combating the effects of materialism. These practices, which include Dhikr (remembrance of God), Muraqaba (meditation), and Ihsan (excellence in worship), help purify the heart and draw the seeker closer to God. “Through Dhikr and meditation, the Sufi cleanses the heart of worldly attachments and fills it with the love of Allah,” he teaches. “These practices are the lifeline of the soul in a world drowning in materialism.”
He also highlights the practice of Sadaqah (charity) as a means of countering greed and selfishness. By giving generously to those in need, the Sufi not only helps others but also purifies the soul from the love of wealth. “Charity is a shield against the corrosive effects of materialism,” Sultan ul Ashiqeen explains. “It teaches us that true wealth is not what we keep, but what we give for the sake of Allah.”
Living a Balanced Life
While Sufism advocates detachment from excessive materialism, Sultan ul Ashiqeen teaches that it also promotes a balanced life where both the spiritual and material needs are met in harmony. He explains that Islam does not forbid enjoying the blessings of this world, but it encourages moderation and mindfulness of God in all things. “Islam is a religion of balance,” he says. “We are taught to enjoy the bounties of this world without becoming enslaved by them. The key is to keep our hearts connected to Allah, even as we engage in the world.”
At the same time, Sultan ul Ashiqeen warns against the dangers of neglecting the spiritual aspect of life in favor of material pursuits. He reminds his followers that the ultimate purpose of life is not to accumulate wealth, but to attain closeness to God. “The world is a means, not an end,” he teaches. “Use it to serve your journey to the Divine, but do not let it distract you from your true goal.”
