AFTER nurturing the barren spiritual land of the self with self-help, a seeker reaches the symbolic bank of a river, signifying the need for guidance from a Wali—a spiritual mentor. The guide plays a pivotal role in transforming the seeker into a believer whose heart becomes fertile ground for Iman (faith) to grow. This transformative journey progresses through stages: from Muslim to Momin (believer), Mutaqi (righteous), and ultimately Mohsin (exemplary). Achieving these stages requires the seeker to embody eight core virtues, beginning with six essentials to becoming a Momin.
The core of Iman: Derived from the Arabic root amana, Iman signifies peace and security achieved through surrender to Allah. The Quran emphasizes Iman as essential for attaining Allah’s mercy. Theosophists describe it as having three dimensions: the six principles of faith, logical reasoning, and metaphysical understanding.
Six Principles of Faith: Five are mentioned in the Quran (4:136), and the sixth comes from a hadith.
Logical Reasoning: Scholars like Farahi caution against self-deception, noting how one may believe they have faith while lacking its essence. Islam supports its principles with rational, coherent arguments, as Ismail Raji al-Faruqi highlights.
Metaphysical Understanding: Drawing on teachings such as Imam Ali’s sermons, metaphysics explores profound concepts like predestination and free will, providing deeper spiritual clarity.
The guide teaches that, just as the Kalma Tayyaba grants one entry into Islam, Iman must penetrate the heart to transform a Muslim into a Momin. This transformation hinges on six virtues derived from the Quran.
The Six Virtues of a Momin: 1. Tawakul (Trust) Appearing 38 times in the Quran, Tawakul signifies absolute reliance on Allah, laying the foundation for unshakable faith. The Quran declares, “Whoever puts all his trust in Allah, He will be enough for him.” (65:3)
2. Hub (Love) This love is pure and selfless, free from lust, akin to a mother’s affection for her child. Combined with Tawakul, divine love eliminates worldly fears and strengthens faith.
3. Ita’at (Obedience) Spiritual growth requires obedience to Allah, His Messenger (PBUH), and rightful leaders. The Quran advises, “O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.” (4:59). This virtue nurtures discipline, aligning the seeker’s life with divine principles.
4. Sabr (Patience) Sabr teaches resilience in adversity. The Prophet (PBUH) called it “radiance,” emphasizing its value as a great blessing. By fostering restraint, Sabr tempers the Ana or ego and strengthens Khudi or pride as self-control, preparing the seeker for deeper spiritual elevation. Poet Allama Iqbal encapsulates its essence: “Elevate your Khdi (Pride) to such a level that God Himself asks you about your intention.”
5. Shukr (Gratitude) Gratitude harmonizes worldly and spiritual existence. Expressed through intention, speech, and actions, it forms a cornerstone of faith. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes gratitude, notably in Surah Rahman, where the phrase “Which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?” is repeated 31 times.
6. Khasha’a (Humility) Humility transforms arrogance into graceful indifference. The Quran celebrates humility: “Successful indeed are the believers, those who humble themselves in their prayers.” (23:1-2). The Prophet (PBUH) reinforced this by stating, “Be humble, and Allah will exalt you.” (Muslim) with these virtues the seeker turns into Momin.
From Momin to Mutaqi and Mohsin: After fostering these six virtues, the guide introduces two additional qualities that elevate the seeker to higher spiritual realms:
7. Taqwa (Piety) Often misunderstood as “fear,” Taqwa refers to a deep closeness to Allah, transcending fear. This virtue transforms a Momin into a Mutaqi, aligning actions with righteousness and deepening spiritual connection.
8. Ihsan (Excellence) Ihsan, meaning perfection or beauty, refines both actions and character. The Quran states, “Allah created everything with Ihsan.” (32:7). The Prophet (PBUH) prayed, “O Allah, make my ethics beautiful (Ahsan) as You made my creation beautiful (Ahsan).” (Musnad, 1403). This quality perfects the disciple’s transformation, embodying excellence in every aspect of life.
Crossing the River and Ascending the Ladder: With all eight virtues deeply ingrained, the disciple attains a harmonious balance between worldly and spiritual dimensions. The guide’s mentorship empowers him to cross the symbolic river. At its far bank, a ladder awaits, signifying the journey from Farsh (earth) to Arsh (heaven) and ultimate spiritual fulfilment.
By transforming the heart through trust, love, obedience, patience, gratitude, humility, piety, and excellence, the guide shapes the seeker’s path from being merely a Muslim to an exemplary believer. The journey encapsulates the profound relationship between human effort and divine grace, offering a roadmap to spiritual elevation.
— The writer is contributing columnist, based in London, UK.
