Al-Asfar

The second journey, ‘al-safar al-nafsani’ (the psychological journey), delves into the intricacies of the self. This phase encourages introspection and self-awareness, urging individuals to confront their inner realities and societal influences. Through rigorous self-evaluation, one can purify the soul and align personal desires with ethical and spiritual principles. The ultimate goal herein is the cultivation of virtues that facilitate a harmonious relationship with both self and the community.

Transitioning to the third journey, ‘al-safar al-‘ilahi’ (the divine journey), the seeker embarks on a quest to comprehend the nature of the Divine. This stage epitomizes the synthesis of intellectual and psychological enlightenment as one seeks to fathom the attributes of God. The study of theology, metaphysics, and divine love becomes paramount in this juncture. It is within this journey that adherents cultivate an experiential familiarity with the Divine, often characterized by an overwhelming sense of awe and reverence.

The final journey, ‘al-safar al-akhiri’ (the ultimate journey), represents the culmination of the seeker’s quest for truth. This phase transcends the dichotomy of life and afterlife, positing that true existence is beyond temporal constraints. The seeker recognizes that their ultimate purpose is not confined to this worldly realm, but rather points towards an eternal dimension where the essence of being converges with the Divine. This final realization is often referred to as ‘wusul’ (arriving), where one experiences a unity with God, transcending all worldly distinctions.