Friends, the relationship between a father, a teacher and a Murshid with their child, student, or follower is nothing but a challenge if someone wants to learn. Otherwise, it can be regarded as a mere ritual. Not only is this relationship important for the student, but equally important for the teacher. Because this is a spiritual relationship it must not be tainted with the worldly affairs, like we commonly observe these days. Although no one has the right to criticize anyone as everyone has a free will but we strongly condemn this practice.
The student should have such a relation with their teacher that when they come in their teacher’s presence, they feel a strong attraction. The student would like to sit near them, kiss the teacher’s hands and feet, hold their hands but if one is a sincere teacher, they would never let this happen. But the desire for a student to love their teacher and keep themselves connected with them is reflective of his sincerity.
Although a great teacher will never speak about it but these feelings are always there. When the student is not in the presence of his teacher and someone talks about them, he gets a feeling or nostalgia. If someone criticizes their teacher he will be hurt. A great teacher instils the feelings of patience and tolerance in the student, as the teacher has connected himself completely with Allah (SWT) and eliminated his internal self only the body remains. All his worldly desires have been eradicated.
A student will keep on thinking about his teacher and the lessons he has taught at all times. Despite transient deviation of his attention towards the worldly affairs and occasional mistakes a student’s love for their teacher will never fade. Similarly, a great teacher will never let his student wander alone in despair. He will constantly pray for his student in front of Allah (SWT) but will never let his student know about it and continue to discharge his spiritual duties. A teacher strives tirelessly to strengthen his student’s relationship with Allah (SWT) and His beloved Prophet (SAW) this is their foremost wish.
Friends, spirituality is a pathway an education which brings an untaught person a student also called a “salik” towards Allah (SWT). Normally a teacher will test their students through different exams and challenges to change their frame of mind, the Qalandari ideology is different. It involves utilizing the latest trends and technology to attract the student and brain wash them. While the teacher discretely changes the students’ mentality and brings them closer to their Creator (SWT) he ensures that their daily lives and routines are unaltered.
Religious activities like prayers and fasting are obligatory there is no escape from them but spiritually adds sincerity and taste to them. Only select people achieve this level the ones who are blessed with a company of an enlightened being their feelings change altogether.
To bring a salik formally towards the Qalandari ideology, he is asked to practice abundant recitation of Durood Pak. So that he gets closer to the Prophet (SAW) develops reverence for Him and a desire to learn and mould his life according to the Prophetic teachings. Such a Salik is a blessing for the entire universe. His prayers are not just to own his benefit, rather they benefit everyone around him. He keeps on doing something that benefits everyone around him. Such people are also called the Sufis. After changing themselves, they set off to do good for others through worship and connection with Allah (SWT).
Syed Ghulam Hyder Shah Qalandri
Kunri, Sindh, Pakistan
