Only one who knows God can be called a true shaikh. Bawa Muhaiyaddeen (Ral.) explains how a true shaikh recognizes his disciples. He then reveals how the disciple can develop his inner being to reflect God’s qualities within his heart. First, the disciple must take the sword of faith, certitude, and determination to cut away all the worldly and satanic qualities that separate him from the shaikh and from God. The shaikh will help him do this with wisdom.
Then, imbued with all the most gracious qualities of God, the disciple becomes a flower whose petals waft forth with the fragrance of God. Bringing a disciple to this state is the duty of the shaikh.
This book describes the intimate relationship between a truly realized teacher, or true Shaikh, and his disciples. He explains the trust that one must have in a teacher, and the dedication to removing one’s flaws and cultivating the divine qualities exhibited by such a teacher.
A student who really wishes to progress must prepare his heart with faith, determination, and patience for whatever difficulties may come on this journey. This unique explanation reveals the extraordinary subtlety of this unique relationship.
“A true shaikh is one who shades and comforts the travelers crossing the desert of this world. If you have the longing and determination to go on this journey, if you are in the proper state and know what you are searching for, then no matter how hard it may become, the shaikh can ease the difficulties, sorrows, and the fatigue you experience.”
