It is accepted that, especially in this era of abject Īmaani weakness, it is not possible to follow in the manner of devotion of the illustrious Awliyaa of previous times. However, the objective of reading and reflecting on the anecdotes of the Awliyaa is to view oneself in the mirror of these accepted servants of Allah Ta‘ala جل جلاله. In this mirror one will observe one’s own deficiencies, and how far one has strayed from the straight path. When this realisation dawns on a person, he will make endeavours to reform himself and at least conduct his life within the parameters of the Shariah. And this is the very minimum obligatory requisite for immediate salvation in the Aakhirah; i.e. emancipation from Jahannum and entry into Jannah without first having to be purified in Jahannum.
Sayyiduna Rasoolullah صلى الله عليه وسلم said that the mercy of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله descends when the stories of the Awliyaa are narrated. The Faidh (spiritual effulgence) of the Awliyaa whose life episodes are narrated has a massive impact on the reader and becomes a wealth of fortune for him before death.
WHAT SHOULD WE DO?
Some people asked Sheikh Abu Yusuf Hamdaani رحمه الله; “When the Awliyaa disappear – when they are hidden, then what should we do to remain safe from the moral and spiritual ravages of the world?” The Sheikh replied; “Daily read sixteen pages of their advices and admonition…”
Hazrat Sheikh Fareeduddeen Attār رحمه الله said; “This kalaam (i.e. the advices of the Awliyaa) is the best speech. It creates an aversion in the heart for the world. It reminds of the Aakhirah. It cultivates friendship for Allah Ta‘ala جل جلاله in the heart. It impels a person to make preparations for the Aakhirah. The kalaam of the Awliyaa is the commentary of the Qur’ān and Ahadīth.”
Although we are not the Saaliheen and Saadiqeen, we do love them. Perhaps Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله will bestow to us reformation by virtue of this love, and perhaps He resurrects us in the assembley of those whom we love.
(SOURCE: THE SAADIQEEN)