On the Javier Novoa Podcast: The Truth About Islamic Spirituality

I was recently interviewed by Javier Novoa on his podcast, where we delved into the profound dimensions of Islamic spirituality and the transformative journey it offers. During the conversation, I aimed to share insights on the inner and outer dimensions of Islam, illustrating how the faith encompasses not only its external practices but also a deeper spiritual path toward ihsan—spiritual excellence.

The Truth About Islamic Spirituality

The Universality and Preservation of Islam

Islam stands out among world religions for its claim of being the culmination of all prior revelations and its exceptional preservation. I emphasized how the Qur’an has remained unaltered in its original Arabic form and how the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has been documented meticulously, making it accessible to believers from all backgrounds.

This preservation extends beyond texts to the lineage of spiritual transmission. I explained that Islam, particularly within the Sufi tradition, upholds the importance of intellectual and spiritual chains of narration (isnad), ensuring the authenticity and purity of the knowledge transmitted from the Prophet ﷺ to present times. This framework guides believers toward achieving a deeper connection with the Divine when practiced holistically—both externally and internally.

The Concept of Surrender: Internal and External Dimensions

A central theme of our discussion was the concept of surrender (Islam), which is not limited to outward acts like prayer, fasting, or charity but extends inwardly to spiritual submission to God’s will. I emphasized that surrender involves not only complying with religious laws but also transforming internally, which is the essence of iman (faith) and ihsan (excellence).

I explained that the spiritual journey is marked by cultivating inner stillness, awakening the heart, and achieving a state of presence with God. Ihsan, described as worshipping God as if one sees Him, represents the pinnacle of spiritual consciousness, where one feels God’s presence intimately, beyond intellectual understanding. This shift from knowledge to experience is a cornerstone of Sufism, as it transitions from knowing about God to experiencing God in the heart.

The Hadith of Jibril: A Framework for Understanding Islam

We frequently referenced the Hadith of Jibril, which offers a comprehensive understanding of Islam, iman, and ihsan. In this hadith, the archangel Jibril (Gabriel) asks the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Islam, which he defines through the five pillars, representing external practices. He then asks about iman, which includes belief in God, angels, scriptures, prophets, the Day of Judgment, and destiny—pointing to the internal dimension. Finally, Jibril (as) asks about ihsan, which the Prophet ﷺ defines as worshipping Allah as if one sees Him. I explained that this hadith encapsulates the full scope of the spiritual journey, emphasizing the need for sincerity and spiritual awakening.

Navigating Modern Challenges with Islamic Spirituality

As we discussed the modern world, I emphasized the importance of spiritual discipline as the pathway to true freedom. I warned against equating freedom with unrestricted indulgence, arguing that true liberation lies in disciplining the lower self (nafs). This discipline allows the spirit to flourish, enabling a shift from being enslaved by the material world to attaining spiritual liberation.

I also addressed the role of doubt in the spiritual journey, acknowledging it as a natural phase that must be faced and transcended. I encouraged listeners to approach doubt not with fear or denial but with openness, allowing it to transform into faith through surrender to God.

The Role of Companionship and Seeking Guidance

I highlighted the significance of good companionship, referencing the Qur’anic command to “be with the truthful.” I encouraged seekers to pursue genuine guidance and spiritual sustenance, whether through direct mentorship, online communities, or other available resources, despite potential limitations in accessing traditional spiritual guides.

The Journey Toward Spiritual Excellence

We concluded the conversation by emphasizing that the path of Islam, iman, and ihsan is one of continuous growth. While fluctuations in faith are natural, the overarching goal is a progressive deepening of spiritual realization. My insights aimed to present Islam as a holistic faith, encouraging both the outer forms and the inner realities of the religion, culminating in a deeper connection with the Divine and the fulfillment of human potential.