15th supplication of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

The 15th supplication of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, often revered within the Shia Islamic tradition, embodies an exquisite synthesis of profound theological concepts and spiritual invocation. This supplication serves as a conduit for believers to articulate their innermost yearnings and to seek divine assistance, thereby facilitating a transformative dialogue between the supplicant and the Divine. In this examination, we shall navigate the intricacies of this supplication, illuminating its thematic richness and theological implications.

The invocation opens with an expression of profound reverence, acutely acknowledging the transcendent nature of God. This initial stance fosters a framework wherein believers are urged to contemplate the divine attributes of mercy, wisdom, and omnipotence prior to engaging in their personal entreaties. This recognition piques curiosity about the nature of the divine and beckons devotees to grapple with broader existential themes.

At the heart of this supplication lies a poignant exploration of human vulnerability and dependence on the Divine. The supplicant articulates a candid admission of their frailty and shortcomings, echoing the overarching Shia theological premise of humility before God. Such humble supplications underscore the notion that true piety is not the absence of flaws but rather the active acknowledgment of one’s limitations and the unwavering commitment to seek divine guidance.

One notable verse within this supplication emphasizes the discrepancies between human aspiration and divine knowledge. The supplicant implores, “O God, I am aware of my insufficiencies; yet, You are the All-Knowing.” This juxtaposition presents a fundamental Shia teaching that resonates deeply with adherents: the divine omniscience stands in stark contrast to human ignorance, provoking a contemplative discourse on the nature of knowledge itself. It invites believers to explore the ramifications of divine foreknowledge on free will and moral responsibility, thus engendering an enriching intellectual query.