Knowing God, Reality And Quality Of Life

 

Contents:

* Introduction

* Trust in God.

* Living Peacefully.

* Inner Peace

* Freedom

* Getting the best in Life

* Selflessness

* Ethics

* Coexistence

* The Way Ahead

 

* Introduction

There is what appears to be a natural basic need to understand what is going on, and that is why maybe one does not have to be a religious scholar or a sufi or a philosopher or a scientist, to read about religion, philosophy and science. Maybe it is better to consider different ways to look at the same existence and its events, in an attempt to get a better view.

Dealing with events, and trying to make sense of what's transpiring, are two related things. Usually one learns from experiences one goes through in Life. But, maybe there are differences between individuals regarding how curious and serious one might be to understand what's going on, and how deep one is willing to go in this regard.

I think it is a constructive way, when experiences of dealing with matters of Life in general, become like a leverage helping to improve one's view of Life, or something that pushes one to try to get a better perspective about Existence.

How does Religion help?

Basically, every single being in creation, at every moment, is at a level of awareness of existence, and at a level of awareness of dealing with it. It looks like an integral part of one's make-up. Regardless of time or location or situation, everyone is always "seeing" and "dealing with" events, and cannot but always be at a certain level of "sight"/"Implementation" or  علم / عمل (religious concepts that probably resemble having an understanding or a "Theoretical view" about existence and a practical "Applied" approach to deal with different matters. For the difference, please see Note #1). Comprehensive or limited, simple or sophisticated, how clear or correct, are not the focus here. It is whether, given any particular point, any improvement in one's awareness can help or not, that is the point. And I think that any honest view, regardless of angle of looking at existence, would consider improvements in awareness about existence and how to deal with it, as very important.

In this article, the spiritual aspect is considered, and how it may help.

As I understand, by studying and understanding pure and pristine religious concepts, "visibility" improves, and hence: priorities get straightened up (Note #4), whatever appears, takes its appropriate position (within the limits and restrictions of creation), nothing more and nothing less. By the Mercy of God, negative things that might have appeared as imposing, can be realized not to be so, and maybe appear as insignificant, if they showed up at all (as something worthy of attention, compared to what is beyond, as mentioned above. see Note #2), as one treads the Path to know God. Mere aiming to tread the Path to know God, regardless of steps taken, is like heading towards a natural deeply effective cure to many common problems. It is a Path with which one naturally finds tranquility, clarity of sight, gaining a deeper and wider view of existence; aspects of what might be called Wisdom. It is not about ignoring or not appreciating where one comes from or a group one belongs to, it is simply about a better view, of things as they are.

The Essence of Religion is about Knowing God. But, how does that help in a better understanding of Existence? and how does it translate into a better Quality of Life? In other words, What is the Spiritual and the Practical Importance of Improving Man's Knowledge of God?

Here is an attempt to present what I understand about the subject.

 

* Trust in God

- Man has no say or control on how the universe started, where his solar system or the galaxy is headed, how his planet became habitable and how incredibly small particles work, and why whatever the laws of physics he knows work the way they do.

There are many things man has no problem taking as 'given'; taking them for granted.

A being of a human lies between beings of the most tiny particles composing one, and beings of the huge things containing the same human being, who typically wouldn't be found worried about such things, that are totally out of his control, not going on working "as they are supposed to". Can that be described as having some sort of a "trust in a system"? Maybe such a trust, when naturally extended and cover far more than the mere physical and the immediately sensed, gives an idea about a believer's trust in God. Maybe that's why there does not appear to be any reason why a believer should be any less confident about the Trust in God, or feel that his trust is any less "concrete", than what might be felt regarding the mere physical and the immediately sensed.

Anyway, as I understand about the modern scientific view, it is generally accepted that a full and complete understanding of 'the system' has not been attained, and sometimes I see talk about complete understanding and perfect knowledge being unattainable.

I think it is worth wondering why would someone worry and get so concerned when it comes to events that, without a doubt, lie within a huge system of events, the vast majority of which are out of one's control and out of one's set of worries? Is it because a far wider and deeper view of things, including oneself, is unclear or absent? If true, does it mean that gaining a wider view of existence can translate into improving inner peace and a better situation overall of a human being? Can the diagnosis and the prescription for a cure be as simple as that?

For mystics, that's what might be described as the "plane" of ordinary believers.

- Moving a step further, from what I understand about the way Mystics see Existence, basically, nothing in Appearance, within Creation, has created itself, or can have full information, or has any control about how it came into existence, or clearly knows how its existence is sustained, or how it is composed of things that are totally out of control for an existing creature. Each 'Moment' of Existence and for every existing thing within creation, is unique. And, for a Mystic, that Moment has nothing to do and totally unrelated to the previous or the next Moment of the existing thing or of Existence (More details in Al-Ghazali's Aqeedah, in the comment on Paragraph #20). And just as an existing thing has no absolute control or full information about how it exists at a certain Moment, other than expecting things in existence to flow in a 'customary' manner that it has become 'accustomed to see', there is literally nothing to tell in absolute clarity what will happen or will not happen, in the next Moment. Other than God, everything is created, prone to changes, and part of transpiring events.

For an ordinary believer, Trust in God is based on Faith; a strong feeling about the concrete basis for matters of religious beliefs like the Trust in God. For a Mystic, it is Clear Sight: Absolute and full trust can only be in God, His Will, His Knowledge and His Wisdom. The Quran describes several times those who reach the stage when there are no fears or grievances. Maybe it has something to do with reaching an advanced level of Trust in God.

Anyway, as has been mentioned before, reaching such advanced levels of awareness does not mean reaching a stage of disinterest in or totally ignoring Appearances or abandoning the Customary View of Existence. Not at all. Seeking and maintaining the precious balanced view is very important. It is simply that the Appearances and the Customary View do not overwhelm Consciousness or hinder Sight, of what is beyond.

- I remember reading in Al-Ghazali's Ihaia (I do not remember where exactly, most likely the fourth quarter when he talks about 'التوكل' or 'Trust in God'), about a comparison between an advanced Sufi and a newborn baby. Someone once said, when looking into the eyes of a little child, all one can see is an Ocean of Innocence and the Infinity of Purity of Heart. Beside being the endearing creatures that they are, babies seem not to have all kinds of emotions that usually appear to have developed in many forms and at different levels of intensity when adults are seen. Babies can be seen as totally helpless, but also seem to be instinctively confident that 'a system' around them, is totally ready to provide all their needs. Without having the foggiest idea about what Parenthood and Guardianship can mean, a baby seems to think as if all it needs is a little cry and voila, attention is surrounding him. And as a reward, a little smile or a tiny happy face can mean so much to a parent. I don't know, but it is like babies sort of know, or at least absolutely take it for granted that, they are fully and totally being taken care of.

The Prophet peace be upon him described a fresh rain drop as 'حديث عهد بربه', a phrase that Imam Al-Nawawi commented on saying about a rain drop "it has just been created by God". I recall the same description in Ibn Arabi's Fusus (Gem No. 25) of a newborn baby as 'حديث عهد بربه' which I think approximately means 'someone who has just come from being at a stage of extreme closeness to the presence of God'. An awareness level that typically (maybe with very rare exceptions) would fade or even get lost as one grows up, being immersed in all the details of life in this world (for more regarding this particular point, see the first note here, and the last note here).

Maybe there is nothing unusual or an abnormal level of awareness that a Sufi tries to reach. Maybe the endeavor on the Path can be viewed as an attempt to regain the same innocent and pure awareness level that is natural and normal with newborn babies. It is about sensing and then realizing a far deeper and wider view of existence, that knows no limits (see "Living Peacefully" below).

- It is often said that babies can see Angels. Purity of Heart, no 'clutter' hindering 'sight', seems to be the reason. As one grows, 'Clutter' gathers and accumulates in many ways, among them:

Hurting people or creatures in general in any way, even the slightest in this regards, contributes in some increase in clutter. And conversely, even the slightest in good deeds and behavior can help in decluttering. A Hadith says

 "لا تحقرن من المعروف شيئا ولو أن تلقى أخاك بوجه طليق"

 Do not think little of even the smallest of good deeds and behaviors, even if it is just smiling to others (and making them feel comfortable).

Choices one faces in Life are so many (regarding manners, behavior, food, relationships, etc.). When advancement on the spiritual Path is considered, there are positive (helpful) and negative (unhelpful) choices. The latter increases clutter and the former helps decluttering.

Many religious guidelines are offered to declutter, and to 'cleanse' Inner Sight.

- It appears that in any population, a certain genre of people can be found, with unmistakable deep relaxation and peace flowing out, naturally (Note #3).

Composure and outer calmness might be seen as possible indicators of the inner situation.

Could there be something about gaining a deeper and broader view of existence that appears to be naturally triggering the move to such a state?

- Assuming that it does, how to gain such a deep and wider view? Numerous tried and tested prescriptions, do exist, and they have been very carefully handed over throughout the ages. And they are tightly linked to spiritual lineages. It is about religion, which is basically about a Path to know God.

- I think it is common for adults to recall how carefree and relaxed they were when they were children compared to what their situations later on would become with responsibilities, that seem to be coupled with worries and concerns, at least for many people. What I understand is that a proper understanding of Having Trust in God can lead to a situation where responsibilities are addressed with competence and appropriate attention as needed. It is the worries and the tensions that become far less and sort of 'soft' (a situation that might be similar to what some people would describe as having a 'thick' skin). Regardless of how educated One can be or not, One can be seen to be totally calm, and upon closer examination, it becomes clear that it is based on nothing other than absolute Trust in God. So, regardless of how much responsibilities one has, it is possible to deal with them (within practical limits of course) in a natural way, where they are not seen as burden, rather they are part of living in this world, when considered with a wider view of existence. From the outside one might be seen as a grownup with responsibilities, yet inside one can reach the stage of being carefree, like a child.

If consciousness can be seen as an asset, then I guess how deeply affected one would be by regular worldly events might reflect where most of the asset is invested: at the narrow and self-centered level, or at a much wider and deeper level?

- Trust in God can be seen as a natural outcome of one's depth of faith in God, and one's totally positive thoughts ( حسن الظن بالله ), and how much one understands and is aware of the Qualities of God like Absolute Power over all of creation, Him being the only Giver of whatever a man might need (from 'Stores' that are infinite), Full all-surrounding Knowledge, His Will and Wisdom. When a believer asks God for something all this background is present.

Urgency might be there, and even if an expected solution is not 'visible', there is no room in a believer's mind for despair. Rather because of the background of a believer's faith (knowledge), and Piety and Perseverance ( الصبر والتقوى , part of implementation methods), there is content, peace and absolute faith that an answer is forthcoming, somehow, in some way or at some time in an expected or an unexpected way. A Hadith says that an answer to a believer's prayer can be seen or not; the answer to the prayer can be in deflecting something serious that is unseen to the believer and he is not thinking about; the answer can be immediate or delayed, or fully appreciated in the Hereafter.

As I understand the religious view, Trust in God, when appropriately understood, and appreciated as a natural reflection of one's level of viewing existence, can contribute to a better experience of Life.

 

* Living Peacefully

- 'Narrow mindedness' is about having a 'relatively' limited view, when seen by someone with a supposedly 'broader view'.

- A person can be seen as part of many 'Sets': family, tribe, ethnic group, a system of thought, a profession, and admiring a sports club or a celebrity or an operating system. Sets need not be seen as cancelling each other. Sets may intersect or complement each other or a set might a subset of another.

- I still remember my feeling when I first saw an image of two colliding Galaxies. It was disturbing just to imagine what could be going on to billions of planets and maybe to countless living beings. I recall a scene in a sci-fi movie about the reaction when someone's home planet is destroyed and is gone. No members exist, so a set might be formed and someone might try to describe it as uber alles. Such sets are conceptual entities that need members causing them to appear at different levels of intensity.

- Any living being in Creation is a unique combination of shades of spectrums of Qualities, defining a certain being, at a certain moment. Shades of spectrums of Qualities, nothing more, and nothing less. There is nothing differentiating between shades, at the level of awareness of their mere existence. Urging to be aware of the full breadth of existing things is essential in Religion. It is a basic first step, for any serious endeavor to understand and learn about existence. At the next stage of awareness, "Values" appear and assigned, they are what make things "good" or "bad" (more details in the section titled "Good or Bad", here).

- Having a distinguishing Identity, and, trying to protect it, are normal in all kinds of groups of living beings. Human beings are no exception. A group normally seeks the right to establish a distinguishing Identity and the right to protect it. This is natural and need not be underestimated.

However, "Abuse of Rights" is a common legal term that is used to describe a situation when a party is legitimately entitled to a right, but 'protecting' that right might transform into an act of intentional or unintentional harm or maybe even into a clear aggression against another party. I think the existence of such a term shows that it is common sense to distinguish between a Right, and how it is handled. Racism and certain forms of clear discrimination might be considered as some of the common examples of 'excessive-protectionism', they probably portray the wrong way to assert a right.

It is inherently a myth for any being within Creation to have full Information, or full control or be able to achieve Absolute Precision. I am not sure, but it appears that a blatant Abuse of Rights might somehow be related to unclarity regarding what is a myth and what is not.

Religion is about a wise, broad and a balanced view of Existence. Religion recognizes the full breadth of existing things, and guides on what to select and what to stay away from, to help one treading a Path, to know God. Religion acknowledges the right to protect oneself yet clearly warns against transgression. Religion acknowledges the right to seek justice and compensation when a party is harmed, yet urges forgiveness (here) and mending relationships and establishing social harmony on a solid basis (details in the section on Social Harmony in this page). Religion helps in understanding the details of Life, and at the same time, stresses the importance that any such understanding does not stop their, and it should never obscure, or hinder 'sight' of, what is beyond.

I think anyone would appreciate any advancement in understanding the world, and making it a better and a peaceful place.

 

* Inner Peace

I have seen videos and read about people saying how going to a certain place would bring them total peace. And it is quite interesting when there are two persons each is talking about exactly the other person's location. In some cases, it appears like, whatever the place one is at is not the best, and there is some sort of a deep inner need to find the "perfect" place, "out there". A given place is about an environment and some company.

In stories about mystics, some would find peace in an empty desert, others in a jungle, and yet others in the middle of hustling and bustling market streets, and of course there are those who would find it in clean and well prepared places. Maybe they found the perfect place, by realizing that the best environment is that of Knowing God, and the best Company is the Company of God. It is a realization of what one can constantly be attached to, whether before coming to the earthly phase or as being here, and then after leaving the earthly phase (the earthly phase is seen as it is, like anyone else sees it, it is just that, within a balanced view, attention and consciousness are not confined with and do not stop at what may appear as the boundaries of a phase). It is an attachment that probably makes one feel as not a stranger, no matter where one might find himself or at what time. Maybe even the word 'Home' (and expressions like 'going back to home' or 'finding one's home') would have a vastly deeper and comprehensive meaning. Maybe then, attempting to understand events regardless of time or place might become easier or even natural or instinctive.

I guess the point is that it is essentially about an inner process that needs to be triggered, improve and maintained, regardless of location or time.

Within the limits of what I understand, the journey to know God is an inner journey. It is about appreciating naturally given gifts like Life and Consciousness as a start, then improving awareness about oneself and Existence and awareness about how to wisely deal with matters and events. Treading the Path is about cleansing and purifying the Heart and improving Inner Sight. Inner Peace is not sought, but it appears to be almost inevitable to just happen, immersing one's inner and outer being, uncontrollably in some situations. (Is a specially structured 'House of Worship' needed for such a journey to have its fruits ? See note# 5).

Counting one's blessings, appreciating what one already has and where one is already at, do not contradict with eagerness to have the best in life, they simply can make one calmer, more realistic, and maybe in a better position to witness the wider view of Life and Existence (note# 6).

 

* Freedom

Perfection, Excellence, Nobleness, Happiness, and Freedom are some of the idealistic ideas that man has always been fascinated with. However, how much can one realize regarding the outer and inner dimensions of such ideas, appears to be different for different individuals. When would anyone feel he or she has seen a 'satisfactory' level of something, seems also to be different. Another thing is how such fine, subtle and deep ideas may be seen within an often overimposing material view of existence.

Sure, everyone needs to be free and feel the full extent of the word Freedom. But where is it exactly?

Is it in saying or doing anything, anytime? That does not seem to be practically possible. There are always social norms and community laws, beside self-discipline and personal taste. Such things do intervene to define 'limits' of such 'Freedom'.

Is it in going against traditional and conventional norms of one's community? It mostly appears to be like a passing phase experienced with different levels of intensity by different individuals. (However, it might be a phenomenon, worth noting. Note #7).

Is it in not having any responsibilities or things to attend to? That does not appear to be possible. There are always loved ones, one's country, etc. Such things can again define limits of this type of freedom.

Is it in being able to afford a lot of leisure time and travel the world?

Is it in having enough resources to get many things one may want to have?

An interesting thing is no matter what type of freedom one may think is important, I have seen expressions when once some degree is accomplished, and it is sort of 'out of the system', then one may find him/her self at a 'then what?' situation.

What I understand about religion: from a common general view of existence, there seems to be a deep unquenched thirst to a very vague and hard to identify something that is Idealistic, most beautiful, something that is Perfect. It can be missed easily by concentrating on some supposed representation of it. It is not about running amok like a child; indeed there are always plenty of social and personal guidelines. Religion squarely addresses that deep need, and the one final goal: Knowing God. The Path toward the destination is about realizing the nature of one's Existence and what Life is all about. One of the things to get out, naturally, from heading to that destination has some times been described as gaining freedom; A high and deep sense of freedom, regardless of surrounding circumstances and particular situations. Often cited are: Freedom from negative feelings and images, Freedom from disturbing ambiguities and doubts, and Freedom from agonizing grievances. And instead, what is gained are things like deep peace and serenity; positive attitude towards life; and the best possible and realistic approach towards events.

So, how such a freedom is gained? Here is what I understand.

Feelings like "less confidence" , "Fear", "Insecurity", "tension" because of some appearances, on one hand, and, "confidence", "security", "excitement" because of some appearances, on the other hand, might be seen as two groups of feelings that seem to be opposites. However, in both cases there is the same very strong attachment to appearances, causes and effects.

In both cases Wisdom can slip faster than mercury from one's hand and swifter than air passing by.

A basic principle (in Ash'ari theology and Sufism) is that an appearance cannot sustain its own existence, and does not stay the same from one moment to the next.

Sufis see it as false or a lack of information or an ignorance, to assume that an appearance can have any say whatsoever in any other appearance's existence. See Hekam #30: "Did not leave any part of ignorance, he who wanted to do something at a certain time, that God did not manifest at the same time."

What exists is only God's manifestation, in all appearances with attributes from the full breadth of possible shades of spectrums.

An important thing about Wisdom is not to let any appearances in creation to distract one.

It is about keeping consciousness focused on the Creator of all appearances in creation , or in other words, directing one's Face (one's Essence), solely, toward God the Creator of all things (as prophet Abraham peace be upon him said ; Quran 6:79; a verse that a Muslim typically recites at the beginning of every Prayer; more details in comment #3 here), and Submitting to God (which is the Essence of what 'Islam' literally means), with trust in His Will and Wisdom. It should be noted that it is not about any culture, it is about realizing the spiritual structure, as it is, beyond any possible culture.

It is the ability to show a sign of being able to see beyond appearances, to show a sign of wisdom. It is about reaching a high level of inner fulfillment.

Dealing with appearances, competently, without losing sight of what is beyond, is the way of the wisest and the noblest. And, there are simple signs that cannot be mistaken for such an attitude. Main among them are purity of heart, high moral values, true appreciation for human essence, and seamless ability to communicate.

Before wisdom reigns, tensions and excitements have long been forgotten. That's why trying to understand a wise person focusing purely on humanly expressible emotions or rationality, might be a waste of time.

I read stories when two Sufi masters would meet, and according to their companions, between the initial greeting and the departing greeting, they would be totally silent, yet after the meeting one of them would say something indicating that the two had a sort of a "conversation". But that's probably is about advanced levels on the Path.

Sometimes, tears come to my eyes when I read about people who have reached high levels of spiritual awareness. That also happens sometimes when I see or hear about people so eager to reach such levels.

It is God's Mercy and Guidance, that someone treading the Path totally needs, to gain Wisdom.

 

* Getting the best in Life

"Life is short" is a common premise that would usually be a basis for conclusions like "have good food", "travel and see cool places", "have fun", "get as much of good things and experiences as possible", etc.

An implicit second premise, which seems to be treated as a 'given' and does not even need to be mentioned, appears to be something like "satisfying natural human senses with worldly things and experiences, is important". But, that is about one aspect of a human being, and there are other important aspects like the spiritual one. What about satisfying the deeper spiritual needs of a human being?

- I think it is obvious that a human being's needs are more than what can be satisfied by the sensuous side.

- There are good things and experiences and then there are the negative ones. Life is not about just what one would like to get. There can be negative feelings if one did not get some good thing or experience, for any reason.

- From what I understand about Sufis and their stories and notes, the spiritual satisfaction seems to be deeper and can make any sensuous satisfaction/dissatisfaction (resulting in joy/sadness) pale in comparison and appear pretty superficial.

- Sufi Master Ibn Ata-Ellah said "What did he find [of worth], he who did not find You [God]? And what is it [of worth] he missed, he who found You?"

- In the Quran there is what I understand as an expression of pity for those unable to see or try to consider what is beyond appearances and what is more than satisfying sensuous needs: (15:3) "Leave them alone, to enjoy (the good things of this life) and to please themselves: Let (false) Hope amuse them: soon will knowledge (undeceive them)." Life is short indeed, and sooner or later every single human being shall realize the reality of his or her earthly life.

- That a human has a sensuous aspect that can overwhelm his/her consciousness and, at extreme cases, can lead to negative events, was clear to Angels even before Adam was created. Quran (2:30-31) "Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: 'I will create a vicegerent on earth.' They said: 'Wilt Thou place therein one who will make mischief therein and shed blood? Whilst we do celebrate Thy praises and glorify Thy holy (name)?' He said: 'I know what ye know not.' And He taught Adam the nature of all things".

Yes, there are negative aspects regarding human beings, but there is a bigger picture about Man, that even the angels were not aware of. Adam, the first human with total purity of heart and instinctive clear knowledge of all things, was above the ranks of angels, who were commanded by God to bow down to Adam (2:34).

Sufis say that man can be more like animals (mere flesh and blood with traits tending to lower animalistic ones) or more like angels (beings of Light). The Path to know God requires selecting to be as less like animals as possible and as much like angels as possible. It seems to be a very important decision for someone serious about treading the Path (for details: Hekam #47).

Everyone seems to be anxious to get the best in life. For a religious person Knowing God is the best that can happen to a human being; the  maximum fulfillment of one's life. And it has so many secondary benefits like inner peace and natural participation in civilized social environments.

 

* Selflessness

From what I understand from Sufi texts, one's Ego can be the key to open the doors, or the biggest obstacle on the Path. It is what makes the "Veil" thick and hinder 'sight', or get thinner improving 'sight', until it disappears at some point, reaching the stage of "sharp is thy sight" (something that some Sufis assert as possible to happen to advanced believers in this life, while the conventional view of religious scholars is that that happens to everyone in the Hereafter).

- During the siege of Madina by Meccans a confrontation occurred between Master Ali and a Meccan knight. Master Ali was short but exceptionally powerful, he defeated the much bigger Meccan who found himself unarmed and flat on the ground. Finding himself helpless, all the Meccan could do was to spit in Master Ali's face. What was the response? He left the man to walk away. When asked why, the answer was that he was not sure that anything he might do to him in response might be a revenge, something to restore the personal ego's pride. (That does not mean that someone can take advantage of a pious person. There is an important balance there. Such an action does not mean that a true believer can be easily deceived, as a famous saying, most likely by Master Omar, goes 'لست بالخب وليس الخب يخدعني' which means 'I am not a deceiving person and a deceiving person does not fool me' ).

In many incidents during Islamic history a phrase would be noticed here and there, it is "لا أنتصر لنفسي" it approximately means "I will not support my self satisfaction". It has been used as an answer by some scholars when mistreated and then someone would tell them to seek revenge or compensation.

As I understand, nurturing the personal ego with a negative thing like revenge, even at the slightest level, does not help in advancement on the Path. And that is just one aspect of what Sufis appear to be describing as "The First Death", an expression that, as I understand, is about freedom from limited views, narrow-mindedness, lower, and animalistic tendencies. It is about moving to higher, Angelic ways and manners.

Maybe subtle things as in such stories, and other signs that might appear minor or unimportant, do distinguish persons serious about treading the Path; those who have reached an advanced level of knowing God.

- In many verses in the Quran Prophets would state that they are not seeking rewards from anyone. In the case of advanced spiritual personalities throughout history, it is noticeable that selfless acts like teaching, healing, feeding and generally showing a loving and caring attitude toward humans and even animals and trees, without looking for rewards or expecting any kind of appreciation from anyone, are things that flow naturally. Such a behavior and attitude has its spiritual reward that is far more valuable than any physical compensation or fellow humans' appreciation can ever present: Advancement on the Path to Know God.

 

* Ethics

- It is not without a very important reason that religion urges adhering to the highest moral values. (details about the importance of Moral values: Hekam #47, and paragraphs 5 to 10 in the comment section here).

Religious Guidelines for the best of manners and behaviors are extensive. They start from simple things like lowering one's voice and being moderate (31:19), and selecting words and expressions for a gentle and polite speech (22:24 and 17:53).

Good manners, Ethics and Morality, especially when concretely based on Purity of Heart, can make Life beautiful, civilized and peaceful.

- If good manners and high moral values are so clearly and strongly encouraged, why the need, since ancient times, for 'Laws' (regardless of how elaborately articulated they might have been at any given time and location) specifying responsibilities and determining consequences? Shouldn't it be expected that people are essentially good by original nature, and they need not be told what are their responsibilities and need not be warned about consequences for not abiding by the Law?

In an ideal world, there might not be a need for any laws, because indeed wisdom, good nature and good intentions should generally be sufficient to govern any dealing or resolve any situation. However, any given community as a whole might not be there yet. Maybe that's why the need for laws that are proportionate and appropriate, and perhaps kept at a minimum level, and maybe even under consideration of decreasing them as social environments improve. Reaching or being in a fine level of social environment should never be ignored or forgotten. Laws might be needed in exceptional cases (that hopefully should never be the norm) while Ethics and Moral values need to be always expected and encouraged.

As details regarding Divorce matters are mentioned, the Quran mentions a general guideline to resort to and never forget as people engage in any dealings in society [2:237] "And do not forget Liberality between yourselves." According to Yusuf Ali's translation, while Pickthall's translation was : "And forget not kindness among yourselves."

Again in Chapter 65, titled "The Divorce", there are further guidelines about this particular matter, but, clearly, along with the guidelines there are several notes about a much wider spiritual view that a believer is urged not to underestimate as one is carrying on with various guidelines governing social relationships and dealings in general. For instance, in verses 2-3 "And for those who fear God, He (ever) prepares a way out, and He provides for him from (sources) he never could imagine. And if any one puts his trust in God, sufficient is (God) for him." In verse No. 4 "And for those who fear God, He will make their path easy." In 5 "And if any one fears God, He will remove his ills from him, and will enlarge his reward." In 6 "And take mutual counsel together, according to what is just and reasonable." In 7 "After a difficulty, God will soon grant relief." All these notes come along guidelines about what might just be considered worldly legal matters, but what is unmistaken is the clear urge to, generally, rise ethically, morally, and spiritually, as one is conducting any worldly matter. The recommended behavior, including in matters of legal nature, is one that overflows with kindness and generosity, things that become more natural and instinctive as one progresses on the Path to know God.

Laws do not take the place of Ethics and Moral values, they are like a protective layer of the essential body of Ethics and Moral values. The layer need not be thick or superfluously mechanical, making it harder to recognize the spirit and the beauty of the body it protects.

There is a difference between teaching children to just strictly respect the Law, and to bring them up appreciating the precious values the Law is positioned to protect.

Maybe in the first case negative things can develop in a community because of not appropriately understanding the meanings behind the Laws, like being scared of the Laws on one extreme, or on another worse extreme maybe even defying Laws or trying to look for and exploit loopholes in the Laws.

In the second case, a positive view of the Law can be nurtured, because of a better understanding of the importance, the meaning and the spirit of the Law, and hence a better and more instinctive and comfortable adherence to Laws.

Beside being an integral part of religious teachings since ancient times, Ethics and high moral values are indispensible for a civil society and a better quality of Life.

 

* Coexistence

Existence is one and the same for all of us.

There is no escape from the fact that Existence cannot but have the same structure (with the widest sense of what the 'structure' might be) and the same way of how things work according to 'rules' and 'laws' of Existence (regardless of how much anyone knows or does not know about them). Yes, there might be differences regarding how much one may know about it, or how one may select to express oneself about whatever pieces of information one might have about it.

Given that, it should be natural to expect that concepts about Reality and Existence, developed within the context of any given culture, can be understood and related to, by someone from a different culture. I cannot imagine such a thing as a concept exclusively known in a certain culture and totally obscure or unreachable to "outsiders". Facts about Existence are universal; whoever reaches the stage of seeing any of them, may get them. Some knowledge or understanding about such universal facts sure can be, and indeed have already been, marked as personal or a distinguishing aspect of a certain culture or a system of thought, but can any cultural marks ever change the facts about Existence in themselves? People come and go, cultures evolve and indeed can come and go too, but Existence, as it is, is constantly, there.

If Existence is one, the Ultimate Reality about it is one and the same.

The Essence of Religion is about Knowing God the Creator of the Universe, and that Essence would (I think, instinctively) be expected to also be one and the same Essence.

If Facts about Existence are the same and the Essence of Religion is the same, then what the "Competition" between religions is about? And how addressing this issue, in a suitable way, can improve the Quality of Life, for all?

I have quoted the following more than once already on this site, but I think it is important and relevant, so I will quote it again instead of referring to it.

There are two factors behind the 'competition': (a) Worldly matters and gains, and (b) differences in approaches, expressions and interpretations of essentially the same universal concepts.

(1) The Quran says:[10:19] "Mankind was but one nation, but differed (later). Had it not been for a Word that went forth before from thy Lord, their differences would have been settled between them." Yusuf Ali's comment on the verse: "All mankind was created one, and God's Message to mankind is in essence one, the Message of Unity and Truth. But as selfishness and egotism got hold of man, certain differences sprang up between individuals, races, and nations, and in His infinite Mercy He sent them messengers and messages to suit their varying mentality, to test them by His gifts, and stir them up to emulation in virtue and piety."

(2) Quran [2:213]: "Mankind was a single nation, and God sent Messengers with glad tidings and warnings". Ibn Ajeeba comments on the verse (in his book Al-Bahr Al-Madeed) saying that all people were one at first, united in there beliefs. Then they differed in how they saw matters of faith, so God sent Messengers to explain the eternal Truths (essentially the same message) and bring them back together, but they differed even more.

The first factor is related to the lower ego of man, where attention stops and totally focuses at a certain level of awareness about worldly matters and gains, resulting in inability or unwillingness to seek a wider and deeper view. And the second factor is related to inherent limits of available information, and how the the information is seen and understood, and expressed about.

Can such factors be considered, at a global level, while taking into account understandable sensitivities? I truly wish to see more sincere efforts in this regard. Humanity needs it today more than ever.

I think it might be a convenient way to paint ideas, especially 'foreign' ones, as black and white, true or false, explainable or unexplainable, given a certain background. The challenge, I would guess, might be whether a broader view can be attained, of a bigger picture, that can explain, at least, much of what is seen.

As communities, that were culturally and geographically isolated for so log, come face to face with other cultures, there might be an expected phase of re-questioning and arguing about what a previous generation of a community might have held as 'concrete' and 'unshakeable'. But maybe a positive and a constructive attitude regarding the same situation would be to see how it opens the doors for a much wider view about the vastness of Existence, and how as differences may be noticed, common grounds, the universality of Ideas, and unifying aspects are things that cannot be ignored. And, maybe many 'foreign' ideas are not really foreign after all.

 

*  The Way Ahead

Within the limits of what I understand,

An approach to deal with Life's situations (especially negative ones) might be described as one that is accompanied with tension, fear, anger, complaints and inability to clearly understand what is going on or to decide what is the appropriate thing to do about it.

A basic religious idea is that every thing that happens or appears in Existence is totally within the limits of God's Will. God's Will defines the limits of what is possible to exist, and whatever appears in existence is within the said limits (for details see God's Will in Al-Ghazali's Aqeedah and Hekam #30).

There is an explanation when things go towards a balanced situation and there is a reason when things go off balance. Properly understanding what is going on and how best to deal with it, is what Wisdom is all about, and what differentiates it from being emotional or "rigidly rational" (which, as I understand, is not basically wrong, from a Sufi angle of looking at things, but it has its limits and it does not consider the most comprehensive view possible about our existence.)

We may not know the limits or fully comprehend what might be going on. But Steadiness, Patience and "Politeness" are urged, as one calmly and peacefully tries to "see" (= to have the best possible awareness; to see "Why" things appearing as they are) and "hear" (= understand and comprehend; to realize the "How" aspect, or the best way to deal with situations) regarding what is going on. This is the spiritual background needed for a "wise" attempt to deal with situations that might come during one's Life.

There has to be a way ahead, regardless of its quality. Being alive simply means that there is a movement of time and there are evolving situations and circumstances all around, paving a way, whatever it is, ahead. One's selection between choices can help in how one's way is paved and to where it leads.

But what the best possible way is like, and in what direction, might not be always clear. Prophet Musa peace be upon him was told to head toward the Red sea, and once at the shore there did not appear to be any path further, and some of his companions started worrying. As for him, he was absolutely confident that there is a right way ahead, and indeed, a path was charted, out of seemingly nothing ahead. It is a unique story, but the idea is about confidence that "a right way ahead" exists, and what is needed is the ability to see it and selecting the option to head in that direction. Faith, Perseverance, honestly and consciously following religious guidelines, Purity of Heart are often mentioned as the basis to calmly see and wisely decide where to head. And with treading the Path to know God, all that background comes naturally and continue to improve with advancement on the Path.

Again, yes, there have been instances of use and abuse of religion throughout the long history of man, but one does have the option not to let that aspect obscure or distract attention from what the Essence of Religion is all about, and how advancement on the Path to know God can help improve Quality of Life.

Having the best possible Quality of Life is a precious goal for all human beings, it is instinctive to look for it as best as one can. The spiritual aspect, since ancient times, has always been there for seeking a "Light" that can clarify things and provide guidance on how best to deal with them.

 

 

Notes

 

(1)

The difference, as I understand, is that scientific theories are based on premises that are never final or taken for granted no matter how much a theory has been tested. In religion, there are some 'given' points of departure that cannot be altered, and then, and in addition, there are sort of premises that can be treated similar to how premises are treated in modern science. The concept of 'Ijtihad' is basically with regards to information that is open for different manners of understanding or interpretation (within a consistent overall approach, which is generally what the term Mazhab denotes), but there are aspects in religion that are not subject to Ijtihad.

Ultimate Reality of Existence is one and unique (the constant unchangeable part). What is relative and can change and evolve is everyone's capacity to "see" and hence "deal" with some aspects of existence.

 

(2)

Maybe examples can be found about individuals being aware of something, and dealing with it with competence, yet all that comes naturally, and need not be tied to a high level of attention directed to that thing or to how much it might occupy one's mind.

 

(3)

As far as I understand the spiritual view, Tranquility is an aspect of treading the Path, that comes naturally and improves with advancement on the Path. It is not an end in itself, and in fact seeking it as an end might even be seen as missing the point. That might be like using a precious Gem as a paperweight. Or like holding a key to a palace and being content with staying out of it, on the street. Or like dealing with or treating something in a superficial way, that is not accompanied with a deep "rooted" understanding, in which case it might have at best a sort of a limited, superficial and temporary effect.

I think "Missing the Point" of what religion is all about is not just with regards to this particular point. It is in any view that gives far higher value to relatively lesser things while showing no real interest in why or how such things developed, within an approach toward a much deeper subtle final goal. It is when superficial aspects become more important, and maybe even the focus of 'religion', that the essence of what it is, is almost lost or vague or at least nowhere to be clearly seen in the picture.

Imam Al-Ghazali had pretty strong criticism for religious scholars who specialized in religious subjects just for worldly gains. As I understand, Sufism appeared as a distinguishable subject when main stream religion became busy with details that were not essential. Sufis always called attention to what is the deeper aspect of religion; what it is all about; what is the final goal, which is nothing other than Knowing God.

Another probably related point. I am not sure, but it appears that one reason why a deep religious subject might appear as 'unconvincing', 'insubstantial' or even 'boring', to some otherwise very smart people, is because it has been sort of 'watered down'. Maybe that could happen when the subject gets 'used' for purposes of business or politics. If what I think has a basis, would it be a surprise to see how might the same views see politics and business? Maybe deep spiritual issues can very rarely be properly and clearly presented when wealth and power are in the same picture. However, it is essential for a functioning society to have its business aspect and a structure of governance aspect. When there are any human errors, I don't think anyone would conclude that there is no need for either aspect, and a society would magically be better without them. In the same way, I think finding human errors regarding the spiritual aspect of a society, need not lead to ignoring or abandoning that aspect altogether. Anyway, hopefully with true desire to know the truth, Honesty and Fairness, the view can get clearer.

 

(4)

Priorities can be considered in different ways. One way is to talk about the order of importance of things. Let's consider the case of a photographer taking a snapshot of a beautiful natural scene.

Of course the effort of the photographer and his talent are important, but without a snapshot it is not that important to someone who has never seen the natural scene, so a snapshot is more important and it is what gives value to the photographer's talent. The original natural scene, however, is the most important, simply because without it there is no snapshot trying to give a glimpse from an angle to the scene, and there is no effort of a photographer either.

A photographer's effort is appreciated, but any other talented photographer could have given me a snapshot. So, the snapshot is more important than the particular photographer. But a snapshot can never give me the original experience of the pristine living view of the scene. So, having a living experience of the original place is the most important.

 

(5)

Is a specially structured 'House of Worship' needed for a journey on the Path to know God to have its fruits ?

What I understand from stories about great Prophets and Mystics, the short and straightforward answer is No.

- The love story of Qais (7th century AD) for Laila is famous in Arabic Literature. Qais was passing by a location where the nomadic tribe of Laila once lived for some time, and he started to kiss and hug the remaining walls in the empty place, and said in a poem:

أمر على الديار ديار ليلى  - أقبل ذا الجدار وذا الجدارا

و ما حب الديار شغفن قلبي  -  ولكن حب من سكن الديارا

"I pass by homes where Liala lived, kissing this wall and that,
It is not the love of homes (the structures) that filled my heart and overwhelmed me,
It is the love of those who lived in the homes."

The difference between outer structures and inner meanings of what the structures point to or symbolize, was clear to Qais. It was the beloved that was constantly on his mind, and any outer appearances that might relate to the beloved or points to where she might be or have been, may have gained relative or temporary importance due to the paramount importance of the beloved Laila. It was the absence of the beloved that made him feel an attachment to whatever somehow related to her or reminded him of her or symbolized her in some way, an attachment that most likely would have become weaker or even ceased to be felt once in the presence of the beloved. I guess it is natural that if the beloved is present, one would be totally busy with being with the beloved, and not with symbols or reminders, etc.

- The Prophet peace be upon him said once: "The earth has been made a Masjid (= literally a place of prostration = Mosque) and a source of purification for me, and a man should pray when it is time of prayer". The whole Earth is a Masjid. Generally, any clean place on Earth is a good place for prayer, it is a place that becomes a sort of a temporary holy place or a makeshift Masjid or Mosque at the time of praying, even if no special structures are erected. A Prayer is essentially a kind of having a communication or a connection with God. It is aiming to start a communication or a connection with God that makes a place or an environment holy.

It is notable that Muslims were praying in Mecca even before the first Mosque was built in Madina, thirteen years after the beginning of the Prophet's Call for Islam.

It is clear that in Islam, Prayer is something very essential, and it can be performed anywhere that is clean. A group prayer is encouraged, and that is best performed in a place prepared for regular group prayers, like a Mosque.

- A man once entered the Prophet's Mosque in Madina and prayed. The Prophet peace be upon him watched him as he was praying, and when the man finished and was heading toward the door, the Prophet said to him "Go back and pray again, because you did not pray". Meaning the man's prayer was not proper, even though he prayed in the Mosque of Madina and in the Presence of the Prophet peace be upon him.

Basically, praying in a Mosque does not automatically ensure correctness and acceptability of a Prayer, from a spiritual view.

"Following religious guidelines blindly and just because they exist, is one of the strongest criticisms Sufis have about 'outwardly' practicing religious duties. When religious duties become personal habits or nothing more than social events, they start to lose their original raison d'etre." (more on the topic in Hekam #63, here).

- Sufis often call attention to the importance of noticing or distinguishing between المباني والمعاني , or 'Original, Pristine Ideas or Meanings', and 'Outer Structures' (symbols or manners of expression in words, signals, etc.) that try to point to those meanings or ideas. Pristine Ideas are constant, and do not change regardless of time or location or culture, unlike 'outer structures' or manners of expression about those ideas. Original pristine Ideas, in themselves, are not affected whether outer structures change or not, or even if they exist or not, or if there are any mistakes in perceiving and understanding them or not, or if there are any errors in expressing about them or not.

In Man's history, there are so many names for so many philosophies or lines of thought, each trying to point to a view of things in Reality, from a certain angle. However, Reality as it is does not change and is totally unaffected by any views about it. (More details here: Knowing things as they are - A Sufi View)

There are no such things as Ancient Knowledge and Modern Knowledge. There are constant and unchangeable facts about Existence and Reality as it is, and the more and better one knows, sees, and understands about it, hopefully the better off one would be.

- Qualities of God are Ancient (Qadeemah, beyond Time and Space), they are not affected by time or space, which are part of Creation that is constantly changing and evolving.

At the start of every single prayer (which means at least five times a day), it is recommended for a Muslim to recite what Prophet Ibrahim peace be upon him said : (Quran, 6: 79) "I have set my face, firmly and truly, towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth".

Regarding this particular phrase, Imam Al-Ghazali explains (Ehya P. 41) that it is not one's physical face but one's Heart that is directed to God. It appears that he was talking about one's essence and God's Essence. Hence, "directing" involves directing one's whole attention toward God, or simply concentrating on one's awareness of God.

Islam is submitting to God, and while such submission has a formal aspect represented by the five Pillars that start with a public statement that 'there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger', it is not just that. The deeper aspect of Islam is to be aware of one's deeper essence, and then to be aware of an intentional "direction" of that essence -with no physically visible parts- towards the Essence of God, Who is not bound by forms or coordinates or dimensions or -hence- any directions. (More on this point, here.)

- So, as far as I understand, a House of Worship, a Mosque, is of course important and it has its religious and social roles, but the proper Prayer (the quality of Prayer?) is far more important, whether inside a Mosque or anywhere else.

 

(6)

The words 'Life' and 'Existence' appear continuously on the site, here is what I think I understand about them.

Life is sort of about a duration, a limited period with a clear beginning and end marks. It can be of a person, or a group of living beings, regardless of how large or small, in number or size, and regardless of what level of abstraction or depth of zooming in or out, a view might consider.

Existence contains all times and locations and lives of numerous things. It is the encompassing container of all that exist in creation. (God's Existence is unique and different from Creation's existence. Details can be found in Imam Al-Ghazali's Aqeedah).

My life is a personal thing while my existence is shared with all that exists in Creation.

My particular existence, my being, my essence, is an aspect of my life. My life has a whole full set of attributes specifying my particular life, within the vastness of Existence.

So, what gaining a wider and wiser view can be about? It can be about (a) A deeper, and a better understanding of oneself, one's particular existence; one's life, and (b) The ability to seamlessly move from viewing one's personal life and existence to a wider view of Existence, that can provide the basis to (c) Easily and naturally communicate with people, living things, and dealing with events in general.

A recipe for a better Quality of Life? I guess any recipe claiming to enhance Quality of Life might be worth considering and thinking about. I think the essence of this one is as ancient as Man; it has stood the test of time, admirably and distinctively.

 

(7)

As far as I can tell, what appears as a desire to "defy" parents, or on a stronger scale, an urge to "revolt" against social "norms", that some young people might go through, might have a spiritual explanation.

While every community shares a view (that might evolve over time but still, basically, widely shared) about "social norms", the differences in such norms in different human communities clearly show that there are far more options than the "set" that any particular community has traditionally "selected" as a "norm".

Maybe buried deep inside a human psyche is a need to "see" the full spectrum of shades, which might require, at least temporarily, and at least theoretically, breaking from the norms around. Maybe it is not a coincidence or surprising, that such a need might be vigorously felt, with physical puberty and few years afterwards.

Maybe when a child is carefully brought up recognizing the Path to know God, reaching puberty would be a normal and peaceful event, and maybe actually a point to turn a person into a real wise man or a real wise woman. I wonder if history books have recorded some such incidents.

 

 

(8)

Please note that what is mentioned on this site is based on a personal understanding of an average guy, who is not a specialist in these areas of knowledge.

Suppose someone is interested in Motorcycles and watches so many videos about them and follows the latest news about new models, etc. However he has never been on a Motorcycle and he does not know what it feels to drive one. So, even if he can talk all day about them, does he qualify as an expert on Motorcycles? I would say No.

I am not an expert with regards to Motorcycles or Mysticism or Theology or Scientific Philosophy. I am someone who hears and reads about them. When I write notes, they are like a Passer-by's notes, they can be totally ignored without missing anything.

As for areas of knowledge covered in the articles on this site, I think they are important and deserve a careful study. And, just like in any field of knowledge, it would be better to always seek and rely on presentations and explanations from authentic and well-known sources.

Peace and best wishes.

 

 

Note: Negative events and their effects and the associated feelings and emotions certainly should never be belittled or considered lightly. This article is about considering an approach that hopefully can help with regards to dealing with negative events.

Negative events happen in life, like what might happen at a community level or at a personal level, in business or in relationships, etc. A negative event is met with different reactions from different people, like trying to run away from it, or trying to forget it, or trying to find a way to take one's mind off it, or falling into despair and express pity on oneself, or anger at: the others, the world, etc. The above reactions are some of the possible and noticed reactions. But it appears like focus on some outside factor, something 'out there', is notable. Can things change if the focus turned to inner factors, to one's own being, and one's capacity to "see" what's going on and to "realize" what's the wise way to deal with events?.

While dealing with outside factors might be needed, control on 'outside' factors may be possible to some degree, or very limited, or none whatsoever. In a clear contrast, control on inner factors, mainly improving one's awareness about existence and how to deal with events, is completely at one's disposal. There are no limits on how far awareness can improve and how ways to deal with events can be improvised.

 

As for this guy, after doing what he can, he would select a quiet place, grab a bunch of books about philosophy, religion, mysticism, and science. Then, as he finds himself immersed in ideas, from a different realm, poof, negative feelings and images get mysteriously driven away, no where to be seen.

I am not sure if what he did was an attempt to take one's mind off something, or an attempt to understand some appearing thing/event in creation, trying to figure out what it is, and realizing it is inherently and inescapably not existing on its own, and not sustaining its existence by itself, and hence awareness need not stop at any appearance. Maybe it becomes clearer, as Sufis keep saying, when a wider and deeper view beyond appearances is gained, that it is far more important and interesting than immediate appearances can ever be.