Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Quote:
- The perfect spiritual guide is the leader of his time, and he always keeps up with the times.
- Change is the principle of the universe. Whoever does not follow this principle perishes.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen & Modern Sufism
Modern Sufism has emerged as a contemporary approach to the age-old mystical traditions within Islam. While rooted in the classical spiritual teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions, modern Sufism reflects the evolving nature of spirituality in the fast-paced, technology-driven world. Among the prominent figures contributing to the revival and dissemination of Islamic spirituality in today’s context is Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman, a renowned Sufi master/Perfect spiritual guide (Murshid Kamil Akmal). His teachings offer a unique blend of classical Sufi wisdom adapted to the needs of modern seekers of Allah.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, the 31st Perfect Spiritual Guide of Sarwari Qadri Sufi order, has been instrumental in guiding souls towards the realization of their divine connection in an era often dominated by materialism and distractions. His work, particularly as outlined in his book Sufism: The Soul of Islam, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, spiritual enlightenment, and devotion to Allah through practical approaches suited to contemporary life. This article delves into his teachings and their significance in modern Islamic spirituality and Sufism, while also touching on the key aspects of modern Sufism.
The Essence of Modern Sufism
Modern Sufism, while remaining faithful to the foundational principles of classical Sufism, adapts its teachings to resonate with the challenges and opportunities presented by today’s world. In the face of growing secularism, consumerism, and individualism, modern Sufism offers a path of inward reflection, spiritual development, and a deeper connection with the Divine.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s teachings resonate deeply with this modern manifestation of Sufism, as he emphasizes accessibility, spiritual equality, and the use of modern platforms to spread Islamic spirituality. One of the key aspects of modern Sufism is the harmonization of the ancient wisdom of Sufi saints with contemporary values such as human rights, inclusivity, and social justice, which are increasingly important to today’s spiritual seekers.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s Role in Reviving Faqr and Spirituality
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman, through his works and spiritual guidance, has become a beacon for modern Sufi practitioners. His teachings center around the practical implementation of Sufi practices that are designed to lead a person closer to Allah while being deeply engaged in the everyday realities of the modern world. He seeks to address the spiritual void that many feel in today’s world, where the quest for material success often leaves people feeling disconnected from their deeper purpose.
In Sufism: The Soul of Islam, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen elaborates on the importance of connecting with the divine essence, highlighting that spirituality in Islam is not merely a set of rituals but a transformative journey that encompasses one’s entire being. The soul, he emphasizes, must be purified of ego, desires, and worldly attachments for a person to attain true inner peace and closeness to Allah.
The Path of Self-Realization and Enlightenment
A central theme in Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s teachings is the concept of self-realization, which he presents as the journey of knowing oneself in order to know Allah. This aligns with the famous Hadith, “He who knows himself knows his Lord.” According to Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, the modern individual is often lost in distractions and material pursuits, neglecting the inward journey that leads to spiritual fulfillment.
His teachings emphasize the purification of the heart (Tazkiyah) as the starting point of this journey. In modern Sufism, this process of heart purification involves regular spiritual practices such as Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), Muraqaba (meditation), and maintaining a constant state of gratitude and humility before Allah. These practices help seekers detach from the ego, which in today’s world is often magnified by the influences of social media, consumer culture, and the relentless pursuit of personal success.
For Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, self-realization is not a solitary pursuit but one that should be undertaken with the guidance of a spiritual master (Murshid). He asserts that in modern times, just as in the past, the presence of a qualified Murshid is crucial for achieving spiritual enlightenment. The Murshid, he explains, is like a torchbearer who guides the seeker through the challenges of life, offering insights and instructions that keep them aligned with the path of Allah.
The Concept of Fana and Baqa
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen also places a strong emphasis on the spiritual stages of Fana (annihilation) and Baqa (subsistence), which are central to the Sufi path. In modern Sufism, these concepts are understood as the processes through which a seeker transcends their own ego (Fana) and attains a state of complete surrender and harmony with Allah (Baqa).
Fana involves the dissolution of the self, wherein one’s will becomes fully aligned with the will of Allah. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen teaches that this stage is achieved through continuous spiritual discipline, including regular Dhikr and contemplation on the attributes of Allah. In contrast to the materialistic focus of modern society, Fana leads the seeker to a state where they are no longer driven by worldly desires but by the divine purpose that permeates all creation.
Baqa, the next stage, is where the individual exists in a state of permanent connection with Allah. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s teachings convey that Baqa is the stage where the seeker’s consciousness is so attuned to the Divine that their actions, thoughts, and words reflect the will of Allah. This stage represents the epitome of spiritual attainment in modern Sufism—a state where the individual becomes a true servant of Allah while still being actively engaged in the world, promoting love, peace, and compassion.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Role in Modern Sufism
One of the distinguishing features of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s approach to modern Sufism is his use of technology to spread the teachings of Islam and Sufism to a global audience. Recognizing the transformative power of the internet, social media, and digital platforms, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has embraced these tools to reach seekers around the world. His teachings are available in various forms, including videos, articles, and books, making it easier for people from different backgrounds to access Sufi wisdom.
In modern Sufism, this digital dissemination of spiritual knowledge is crucial. It helps bridge the gap between traditional spiritual practices and the realities of a world that is increasingly interconnected through technology. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s work in this area underscores the adaptability of Sufism to contemporary contexts, showing that the timeless wisdom of Sufi saints can be relevant and impactful in the modern era.
Universal Love and Humanitarianism
A key aspect of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s teachings in modern Sufism is the emphasis on universal love and humanitarianism. He teaches that the love of Allah should manifest in the love of humanity, irrespective of race, religion, or background. This aligns with the broader message of Sufism, which has always promoted compassion, tolerance, and inclusivity. In a world often divided by conflict, prejudice, and misunderstanding, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen advocates for a spiritual awakening that transcends these barriers and brings people together in the spirit of love and unity.
Through various humanitarian initiatives, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has demonstrated that spirituality must be practical and impactful. His teachings encourage modern Sufi practitioners to be actively involved in their communities, helping those in need and promoting justice and peace.
Conclusion
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is the perfect spiritual guide and reviver of religion of this era. He has truly revived Islam, enlivened its soul and spread the true religion’s message to every corner of the world. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen trains his disciples such that their outward personality shines. He has always adopted an innovative approach while staying within the requirements of Sharia and to keep up with the times. According to him, true believer is one who keeps up with the times.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman’s teachings have played a significant role in shaping modern Sufism by making it accessible, relevant, and transformative for today’s seekers. His emphasis on self-realization, the importance of a spiritual guide, and the use of modern technology to spread Islamic spirituality resonates deeply with contemporary spiritual needs. In a world often characterized by materialism and distraction, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s guidance offers a path to inner peace, divine connection, and a life of love and service. His work continues to inspire individuals to embrace the deeper dimensions of their faith and to become true embodiments of the spiritual values of Islam in modern times.
