The Awarif Ul Ma’arif – Written in the thirteenth Century

Shihab al-Din ‘Umar al-Suhrawardi

Paperback, 170 Pages, Black & White
6 x 9 Inches
Qadeem Press

Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of Sufism with ‘Awārif al-Ma’ārif’, penned by the revered 12th-century Sufi master, Sheikh Shahab al-Din Suhrawardi. This timeless masterpiece, originally written in Arabic and known as “The Gifts of Gnosis,” has been a beacon of light for Sufi scholars and practitioners for centuries, guiding them toward spiritual awakening and divine union.

‘Awārif al-Ma’ārif’ delves into the profound depths of Sufism, offering readers a comprehensive exploration of spiritual practices, ethical principles, and mystical enlightenment. Sheikh Suhrawardi’s insights unfold the path of inner purification and divine knowledge, making this work an invaluable guide for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the soul and its connection to the Divine.

Explore detailed descriptions of rituals, prayers, and meditative practices that are essential for a Sufi aspirant. Learn about the transformative power of love, devotion, and the immersive experiences of Sama’ and zikr. Gain insights into the various stages of the spiritual journey, from the initial steps of being a disciple to the ultimate union with the Divine. Sheikh Suhrawardi meticulously explains each phase, offering practical guidance for seekers.

Discover the moral and ethical behaviors expected from a Sufi. The book emphasizes virtues such as humility, sincerity, contentment, and service, providing a framework for leading a spiritually fulfilling life. Delve into the nature of the human soul, its purification process, and its intimate relationship with God. The author sheds light on concepts like Nafs, Tajalli, and Ma’rifat-i-Ruh, enriching your understanding of the soul’s journey. Uncover the profound inner knowledge (gnosis) that a Sufi seeks to attain through direct experience and divine illumination. The book offers deep reflections on the unity of God, the essence of existence, and the ultimate truths of the next world.

‘Awārif al-Ma’ārif’ stands as one of the essential texts for understanding classical Sufism. Its systematic approach to Sufi teachings and practical aspects makes it a timeless resource for both seasoned practitioners and curious seekers. Sheikh Suhrawardi’s work has been translated into several languages, continuing to inspire and guide readers across generations.

By engaging with ‘Awārif al-Ma’ārif’, you join the ranks of countless Sufi scholars and practitioners who have found solace and enlightenment in its pages. Whether you are looking to deepen your spiritual practice or simply seeking knowledge, this book offers a roadmap to the soul, guiding you toward spiritual realization and divine union. Open your heart, expand your mind, and embark on a journey of a lifetime with ‘Awārif al-Ma’ārif’. Your soul will thank you.

Table of Contents:

Table of Contents:

Introduction

The being a shaikh

The being a murid (disciple)

Customs of the men of the Khankah(convent)

Safar (the journey)

Sama’ (the song and the rotatory dance)

Rules of Sama’

The Khirka (the darvish-mantle).

The choice of the coloured Khirka

Khilvat (retirement)

Conditions of Khilvat

Dreams of the men of Khilvat

‘llm (knowledge)

Mla’rifat (deep knowledge)

Hal (mystic state) and Maķām (stage)

Tawhid (the unity of God) and Zat (the existence of God).

The affairs of the next world

‘llm-i-kiyām (knowledge of God’s standing as the slave’s observer)

‘Ilm-i-Hal (knowledge of the mystic state)

‘Ilm-i-yakin (knowledge of certainty)

Nafs (essence)

Some of the qualities of Nafs

Ma’rifat-i-Rüh (knowledge of the soul)

Jam’ (collected) and Tafraķa (dispersed)

Tajalli (being glorified) and Istitār (being veiled)

Wajd (rapture) and Wujüd (existence) Wakt (period) and Nafas (moment)

Shuhüd (being evident) and Ghaibat (being concealed)

Tajrid (outward separation) and Tafrid (inward solitude)

Mahv (obliteration) and Isbat (confirmation)

Talwin (change) and Tamkin (rest)

Aurad (prayer-exercises) and the two Kalima-i-Shahādat (the creed)

Zuhd (austerity)

Fakr (poverty)

Tajarrud (being celibate) and Ta,ahhul (being married)

Tawakkul (reliance on God)

Rizā (contentment)

Muhabbat (love)

Shauk (desire)

Kabz (contraction) and Bast (expansion)

Fanā (effacement) and Baķā (permanency)

Partition of times on Aurad (prayer exercises)

Ru,yat

The witnessing of prophecy and its ending with Muhammad

Ma’rifat-i-Dil

Ma’rifat-i-murid Sa Murad Va Sālik

Va Majzūb

I’tikād

Ilm-i-Fariza

The Hal of man

Adab of Muhammad

God

Ma’ishat

Şalāt

The mystic rose of the Kadiris

Bai’at

Zikr, Murāķiba, Tauhid

The Daur

Halat

Sama’ (dance)