This post is based on an excerpt from a live session within Awakenings Academy, where we delved into the complexities of our spiritual journey. In this session, we reflected on the many years spent striving to draw closer to Allah and the humbling reality that, despite our efforts, we may still find ourselves struggling to truly enter into the Divine presence.
Many of us have spent decades traversing the distance created by our egos, battling against arrogance, pride, and self-righteousness. Yet, the journey to overcome these internal obstacles is ongoing, reminding us of the deep and challenging nature of spiritual growth.
In Islam, the basic requirements are clear: giving your shahada, praying the five daily prayers, giving zakat, fasting during Ramadan, and performing hajj if able. These are the pillars of sharia, the legal and moral code that is required of every Muslim. However, there is an additional path for those who desire more—a path that leads beyond the basics and delves into the realms of iman and ihsan.
Tariqah, often translated as “the way” or “the path,” is not a requirement for Muslims. It is the spiritual path of the muhsin, one who strives for excellence in faith and actions. This journey is optional, yet it offers a deeper connection with Allah. It is a path for those who seek to transcend the minimum obligations and pursue a higher state of spiritual consciousness.
The distinction between these paths is significant. While sharia is the horizontal foundation, tariqah is the vertical journey that can lead to a closer, more intimate relationship with the Divine. Allah Almighty, in His infinite mercy and generosity, guides those who seek Him. He offers opportunities to grow and to enter into His presence in profound ways.
As the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ relates in a hadith qudsi that Allah Almighty has stated, “My servant approaches Me with what I have required, and then continues to approach Me with what is nawafil (supererogatory acts), and then I love him.” This love signifies a deeper bond, one that draws the servant closer to Allah’s presence—a presence that all believers are in, yet few are fully aware of.
To be a Muslim is to fulfill the obligations of sharia and be under Allah’s mercy in the Hereafter. To be a mu’min, one who has reached the level of iman, is to be on the path toward ihsan—a state of perpetual awe, love, and connection with Allah. Ihsan represents the highest levels of faith and devotion, leading to countless degrees of nearness to Allah, with no limit to the proximity one can achieve.
In conclusion, the spiritual path in Islam is layered and offers various levels of connection with the Divine. While the minimum requirement is to be a Muslim, the path of tariqah invites believers to strive for iman and ultimately ihsan, experiencing the fullness of Allah’s presence and love. This path is for those who desire it, for those who wish to go beyond the basics and enter into a deeper, more profound relationship with their Creator.
May Allah Almighty guide us to that which is best and most blessed, and to His divine presence and pleasure.
Allahumma ameen.
To your divine and eternal success.
