Sufism: The Path of the Saints
Continuing the Prophetic Light Through Purification of the Heart
Sufism, or Tasawwuf, is not an innovation or a separate sect; it is the very heart of the Prophetic message—the science of purifying the soul (tazkiyat al-nafs) and perfecting one's character to achieve the state of Ihsan (Spiritual Excellence). This inner knowledge was transmitted directly from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to his closest companions, such as Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (RA) and Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), and from them, it has been passed down through an unbroken chain (Silsila) of authorized spiritual masters (Auliya Allah) to the present day.
Each master in this chain is a link, a spiritual heir who has fully realized the teachings in their own heart and is qualified to guide others on the same journey. This ensures the path remains pure, protected, and directly connected to its divine source, safeguarding the seeker from misguidance and the whispers of the ego.
Dhikr (Remembrance): The central practice of Sufism is the remembrance of Allah, as commanded in the Qur'an: "O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance" (33:41). This is done through recitation of divine names and phrases, which polishes the heart and brings tranquility.
Suhba (Companionship): The importance of keeping the company of the righteous is paramount. Spiritual growth is accelerated in the presence of a true guide and righteous companions, whose states can be "transmitted" and whose example provides a living blueprint for the path.
Mahabbah (Love): The path is fueled by an intense love for God, His Prophet (ﷺ), and all of creation. This love is the driving force that makes difficult spiritual disciplines feel sweet and transforms the seeker's entire being.
Khidmah (Service): True spirituality is not found in seclusion, but in serving creation for the sake of the Creator. A purified heart naturally overflows with compassion, leading the seeker to become a source of benefit and mercy to others, embodying the Prophetic character.
Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA)
The Sultan of the Saints (Sultan al-Auliya)
Among the greatest of these masters was the reviver of the faith, Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (may Allah sanctify his secret), known as al-Ghawth al-A'zam (the Greatest Helper) and Mehboob-e-Subhani (the Beloved of the Divine). Living in 11th-century Baghdad, his powerful sermons and profound spiritual presence revived the heart of the Muslim world. He is the central figure of the Qadriya order, one of the most widespread Sufi brotherhoods in the world.
His influence was so profound that he is referred to as the Sultan of the Saints. His life was a perfect embodiment of the balance between the outer law (Shari'ah) and inner reality (Haqiqah), teaching that true spirituality is built upon the foundation of perfect adherence to the Prophetic way. His sermons and writings remain a treasure trove of divine wisdom for seekers today.
"My foot is on the neck of every saint of Allah." - This famous proclamation, made by divine command, does not signify arrogance, but rather the exalted spiritual station and authority granted to him by God over the saints of his era.
The Darbar-e-Aliya Qadriya Fazliya is a living, breathing branch of this sacred tradition. Our spiritual lineage connects directly back through a documented chain to Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA) and, through him, to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The teachings passed down by our revered saints—from Peer Syed Barkat Ali Shah to the current leader, Syed Ishfaq Mohy Uddin Shah—are the very same timeless principles of love, purification, and service that have defined the Path of the Saints for over 1400 years.
We continue to uphold the practice of Dhikr, Suhba, and Khidmah as the core means to traverse this blessed path. Our doors are open to all who sincerely seek to connect with this timeless heritage of light and love, and to transform their own hearts in the process.