The Spiritual Teachings of Dewanbag Sharif: Navigating the Path of Mohammadi Islam
The four main teachings of Sufi Emperor
Four Cornerstone Teachings: Cultivating Inner Purity and Divine Connection
Self-purification (Tazkiyat al-Nafs)
- As stated in the holy Quran, ”Successful is indeed one who purifies his soul. And doomed is the one who corrupts it.” [Sura:Shams, verse:9-10].
- The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Beware, in the body, there is a piece of flesh; if it is sound, the whole body is sound and if it is corrupt the whole body is corrupt, and hearken it is the heart.”[Muslim Sharif:1599].
Heart Awakening (Dhikr al-Qalb)
- This teaching focuses on revitalizing the spiritual heart through remembrance. The Quran warns, "He whose heart is receded from the dhikr (remembrance) of Allah is clearly misled" [Sura: Zumar; 22],
- Allah, also commanding remembrance after prayer in all states [Sura: Nisa; 103]
Concentration in Prayer (Salah with Hujuri)
Another important teaching of Sufi Emperor Shah Dewanbagi (Rh.) Hujur Qiblajan is performing Salat (ritual prayer in Islam) with unwavering concentration.
- Achieving unwavering focus during Salat is a vital teaching. A Hadith indicates prayers with worldly thoughts are not answered. The Quran warns those heedless in prayer [Sura: Maun; 4-5]
Sufi Emperor taught performing Salat with full attention, freeing the mind by recognizing Allah as Hajir (omnipresent) and Najir (omniscient). This awareness, he explained, prevents worldly distractions, allowing the full blessings of prayer.
- The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) called Salat the Meraj (spiritual ascension) for a Mumin [Bukhari Sharif: 413, 426].
Becoming a Beloved of the Prophet (PBUH)
- This teaching highlights cultivating deep love for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Quran links following the Prophet (PBUH) to gaining Allah's love and forgiveness [Sura: Al Imran; 31].
- A Hadith states true belief requires loving the Prophet (PBUH) more than anything [Bukhari & Muslim Sharif]
- Sufi Emperor affirmed, "Iman refers to having love towards the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). A man is a believer as much as he loves the Prophet (PBUH)."
Insightful Interpretations of Islamic Pillars
Sufi Emperor Shah Dewanbagi (Rh.) was a preeminent Tasawwuf researcher whose interpretations of Islamic principles are both research-based and deeply relevant to human life. His approach, rooted in profound knowledge of the Quran and Hadith, aims to provide a realistic understanding and experience of religion.
Kalimah
He revealed the inner secret of the Kalimah, explaining it as phases of spiritual development towards fulfilling faith. More than a verbal declaration, experiencing its reality unfolds in four spiritual stages through attainment guided by divine representatives, clarifying its profound inner teaching.
Salat
Emphasizing performing Salat with Haqiqah (reality), he outlined prerequisites: submission, purification, and unwavering attention. Citing the Hadith that a believer talks to Allah in Salat, he taught it as the means to meet Allah, communicate needs, and primarily form the Ahammadi character—embodying the Prophet’s (PBUH) exalted nature. He linked prayer postures to the Arabic letters of ‘Ahammad’, symbolizing this transformation. Focused prayer in the Qalb, he explained, can lead to experiencing spiritual light and even Didar of Allah, requiring guidance from a realized spiritual master.
Sawm
Explaining fasting’s purpose for Takwa and soul purification, he taught it controls evil instincts, paving the way for pure worship. Presenting Sawm as the “door of Salat,” he classified fasting into Ordinary, Moderate (abstaining from ill thoughts), and Superior (constant remembrance and contemplation) classes, the latter observed by Awliya-e-Keram. He stressed that true Sawm transcends mere physical abstinence, teaching its proper observance for attaining Allah as its ultimate reward.
Hajj
Interpreting Hajj as a vow, he explained its rites as physically and mentally preparing pilgrims, symbolizing detachment and a state akin to death. The animal sacrifice represents killing inner enmity. Tawaf and Arafat are times for repentance and seeking forgiveness, recalling Hazrat Adam’s (As.) forgiveness through the Prophet (PBUH). Throwing stones symbolizes overcoming inner obstacles and worldly temptations with spiritual guidance. Visiting Medina evokes love and yearning for the Prophet’s (PBUH) Didar. Citing the Hadith of the Mumin’s heart as Allah’s throne, he emphasized following Awliya-e-Keram for an effective Hajj that fulfills its true spiritual purpose.
Zakat
Defining Zakat as purification, he highlighted its mandatory nature for wealth and its spiritual benefits beyond helping the poor. Paying Zakat, he taught, purifies and increases wealth, earning Allah’s and the Prophet’s (PBUH) satisfaction, detaching from greed, and fostering brotherhood. He referenced ‘Zakat of Tariqa’ (donating to saints for spiritual growth) and emphasized the esoteric aspect of Zakat—earning divine satisfaction to reach Allah and the Prophet (PBUH)—teaching its proper observance for spiritual advancement.
