While we generally tend to equate the religion of Islam with ritual practice, i.e. the 5 Pillars of Islam, these only constitute its outer dimension and its form. In essence, the physical and outward practices and obligations of the faith are but the container through which something far more vital is transmitted.
The essence and the soul of Islam is its spirituality, and the goal and purpose of the faith is expressly in spiritual development and awakening so as to draw nearer unto the Divine Presence of Allah. This then constitutes the reason for creation and that which gives meaning and purpose to our lives.
Spiritual Development and Awakening in Islam
In this recent livestream session, I discuss key pillars and principles on spiritual growth, development and awakening in Islam. In this informal conversation, we cover the following topics:
- Is spiritual awakening the result of effort or grace?
- The ranks of prophets, messengers and saints (awliya).
- The purpose of life.
- How to develop spiritual stamina and capacity.
- Spiritual practice and the heightening of sensitivity.
- The consumption of animal products for they who seek spiritual awakening.
- The noble example of the Prophet and Messenger of God ﷺ.
- The middle and balanced way.
- What to focus on during meditative and spiritual practice.
- Shifting from thinking to feeling.
- The limit of the mind in the ascent towards the Divine Presence of God.
- Breath as the key to connecting with the Spirit and Presence of the Creator.
- The flow of breath, energy and spirit within.
- Shifting the localization of consciousness.
- Three primary levels and states of consciousness.
- The function of the personality in defending the psychological sense of self.
- Transcending space and time.
- Interstellar and the power of love.
- The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as the full and brilliant moon.
- The qibla—or compass—of the heart.
- Love as the key to annihilation in the Divine Presence of God.
I pray you enjoy and benefit, and would love to hear your comments and feedback below.
May Allah Almighty guide, bless, heal and raise both you and I for the sake of His beloved ﷺ.
To your divine and eternal success.
