Sufism and the Philosophy of Divine Effusion
The simplified Sufi understanding, which focuses on the intellectual aspect, dates back to the theory of divine effusion, adopted by some Islamic philosophers such as Ibn Sina and Al-Farabi. According to this theory, the mystic reaches the highest levels of knowledge through mental union with God via intuitive perception or inference from the created things that emanate from Him. However, despite its connection to these philosophies, Sufism remains more comprehensive, as it links intellectual understanding with spiritual experience and behavioral practices.
Sufism Between Behavioral and Intellectual Practices
On the other hand, there are several Sufi movements that focus solely on the behavioral aspect, claiming that the Sufi path does not require rational thinking but merely concentrating on emotional aspects. Such practices might lead to physical exhaustion and a suppression of desires without addressing the greater spiritual life goals.
Islamic Sufism: Distinguished from Other Spiritual Schools
One of the key observations that can distinguish Islamic Sufism, as seen by Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Gilani, from other spiritual schools is its complete connection to Islamic law (Sharia). Islamic Sufism does not follow one single way but evolves at all levels with the aim of changing the human life, from worship methods to interaction with others. In this methodology, the seeker aims to strengthen their spiritual connection with God, which not only requires intellectual effort or focusing on worship but also necessitates behavioral and ethical patterns that elevate the human soul towards virtue and purity.
Fana in Al-Jilani’s Sufism: Between Extinction and Erasure
The station of fana in Islamic Sufism, according to Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Gilani, is a positive fana aiming to transcend the illusory human existence. It also seeks to erase bad attributes and replace them with good ones. Fana here is different from other philosophical schools, such as Nirvana, where complete dissolution in the absolute universe is sought. For Al-Jilani, fana is a positive process of getting closer to God.
Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Gilani: Philosopher and Reforming Mystic
Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Gilani represents a natural extension of the series of Sufi sheikhs who built their Sufi theories on a solid legal foundation. Al-Gilani believed that Sufi behavior is an attempt to return the soul to its original state, i.e., to return to the human nature before life’s troubles and bodily desires overshadowed it. In this context, Al-Gilani emphasized the importance of conscious will and pure intention in the Sufi path, distinguishing Sufism from all that is falsely claimed or unlawful in the modern era.
Islamic Sufism: A Behavioral and Educational Method
Islamic Sufism is a behavioral and educational methodology derived from the Muhammadan light. Through this methodology, the seeker strives for spiritual elevation while preserving the original human traits that do not diminish in the Sufi path. Therefore, Sufism does not aim to erase personal identity but to purify and refine it.
Conclusion
Islamic Sufism, as viewed by Sheikh Abdul Qadir Al-Gilani, is a concise path aiming to achieve God’s love through purity and integrity, continuous remembrance, righteous conduct, and detachment from vices. In this way, the seeker achieves a spiritual progression similar to positive fana, where a person draws closer to God while maintaining intellectual, physical, and spiritual balance.