The Robe of Nearness
Qad kasana dhikru'l-Habibi jamalan
The invocation of the Beloved has clothed us
in beauty, radiance, exaltation and delight.
In drawing near we cast aside every restraint
and openly proclaimed the One we love to
glorify
The Beloved gave us a draught of pure love to drink
which forced all but the Beloved to disappear.
We saw the whole creation as mere floating specks of dust:
and witnessed the lights appear openly and
clearly.
After having been effaced and annihilated
in a light-giving wine, we returned to creation.
By a pure gift from Allah we were given going-on
and then, with patience, we concealed the
One we love.
How often have we looked on a wayfarer who has then risen
to the stations of those who have plunged into
the seas!
We have healed the hearts of what had gripped and possessed
them
through sciences whose taste is subtle; and then
they soared.
We focused on something secretly and then it came about,
and so the One we have chosen to love has come
to us.
We heard a secret call from the presence of the
Unseen:
"In Our sight you are beloved so be filled with
gratitude."
We have authority to quench the thirst of whoever comes
longing
for the encounter and not seeking mere information.
Even if presents are plentiful and generous gifts abound,
pay no attention to them, but cling to poverty.
Humble yourselves to its people – they will satisfy your
thirst.
You should draw near to them and have no fear
of disgrace.
Strip yourselves of all knowledge and understanding
so that you may obtain what the great have obtained.
Freely offer up your self, you who desire union,
and follow the Shaykh in whatever he indicates.
Witness the truth in him, in both your essence and your heart,
annihilate yourself in him: by him you will win
through.
He is the light of the Messenger from every point of view,
and the medicine of hearts, both openly and secretly.
So pay attention to him and show him great esteem.
Go into his presence in a completely broken state.
Blessings be upon the Prophet and all his family
and Companions and all who direct other people
to him,
And peace, fragrant with musk and every sweet perfume,
and consummate beauty and unrivalled sublimity.