Category: The Path

On Permission to Read and Study Religious Texts

Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him)

Do I need permission to read and study religious texts?

There is great benefit in the explanation of the scholars. Furthermore if you have permission (ijazah) from them to read or study a specific text it is more likely to be beneficial and your understanding will be deeper. However, every Muslim who studies these books will benefit, especially if one studies them with love, yearning and desire to travel the path.

Advice for Students of Knowledge

Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him)

What advice do you have for students of knowledge?

The most important thing is that they have exaltation for the Sacred Law and sacred knowledge. They should also bring to heart the greatness of seeking knowledge in the sight of Allah and how beneficial it will be to them in the next world.

On Movements while Making Dhikr

Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him)

Some of the followers of other spiritual paths make movements while making dhikr. Should we take part?

They do this seeking to attain presence with Allah following the instructions of their shaykhs. We should joyfully participate with them in the dhikr without making these movements.

On Seeking Spiritual Assistance from the Ba Alawi Imams

Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him).

How do we seek spiritual assistance from the Ba Alawi Imams?

We do this by loving and revering them for the sake of Allah, regularly reciting some of the Qur’an or some adhkar and donating the reward to them, reading their biographies and sharing what you have read with your family.

Your portion of assistance depends on how truthful you are, the greatness of your perception and the degree to which you emulate them.

Books Which Clarify the Path

Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him).

Which books would you recommend reading to gain an understanding of the Path?

The books of Imam al-Ghazali, Imam al-Nawawi, and Imam al-Haddad are good for acquainting newcomers with the Path. The Path is to act on what is in those books and to combine between strengthening one’s faith and performing good deeds. ‘The Book of Assistance’ by Imam al-Haddad, for example, practically defines the Path. Continue reading Books Which Clarify the Path