Reflection

Tafakkur

                Reflect upon the wondrous skill with which both land and sea are made
                     and contemplate the Attributes of Allah outwardly and inwardly.

               The greatest testimony to the limitless perfections of Allah
                    can be found deep within the self and on the distant horizon as well.

               If you were to reflect on physical bodies and their marvellous forms
                     and how they are arranged with great precision, like a string of pearls;

               And if you were to think about the mysteries of the tongue and speech with it,
                    and how it articulates and conveys what you conceal in your breast;

               And if you were to think about the secrets of all the limbs
                    and how easily they are subject and in thrall to the heart's command;

               And if you were to reflect on how the hearts are moved to obey Allah
                    and how at other times they creep in darkness towards disobedience;

               And if you were to think about the earth and the diversity of its plants
                    and the great variety of all the smooth and rugged land in it;

               And if you were to think about the secrets of the seas and all their fish
                   and their endless waves held back by an unconquerable barrier,

               And if you were to think about the mysteries of the manifold winds
                   and how they convey the mist and fog and clouds which release the rain;

               And if you were to reflect about all the mysteries of the heavens –
                  the Throne, the Footstool and the Spirit sent by Divine command.

               Then you would accept the reality of tawhid with all your being,
                    and you would turn away from illusions, uncertainty and other than Allah;

               And you would say, "My God, You are my desire and the goal of my quest
                     and my impregnable fortress against evil, injustice, and deceit.

               You are the One I hope will provide for me and take care of all my needs,
                    and You are the One who rescues us from all evil and wickedness.

               You are the Compassionate, the One who answers all who call upon You.
                    And You are the One who relieves the poverty of the poor faqir.

               It is to You, O High Exalted, that I have raised all my requests,
                    so hasten to me the Opening, relief and the Secret, O my God.

               By the rank of the one in whom we hope on the day of distress and grief –
                    that terrible day when people come to the Place of Gathering."

               May Allah's blessings be upon him as long as there is a gnostic
                    who reflects on the lights of His Essence in every manifest thing,

               And upon his family and Companions and everyone who follows
                    his resplendant Sunna and all its prohibitions and commands.

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