Fifth Supplication of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

The Fifth Supplication of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya presents a robust tapestry of supplication that encompasses the soul’s yearning for divine proximity and enlightenment. Within its verses lies an intricate exploration of human deficiencies, the omniscience of God, and the profound interplay between divine mercy and justice. This supplication serves not merely as a ritualistic recitation, but rather as an epistemological framework, inviting practitioners to delve deeper into their spirits and discern their existential relationship with the Creator.

In understanding the Fifth Supplication, one must first appreciate its metaphysical underpinnings. The invocation begins with a humble acknowledgment of human frailty. The supplicant implores God to bestow wisdom, a quality often viewed as a luminous jewel, capable of illuminating the murky corridors of one’s existence. The metaphoric implication here is profound: wisdom is not merely an intellectual asset but a guiding star in the tempestuous sea of life’s uncertainties. This initial plea sets the tone for a supplication that is both introspective and aspirational.

The subsequent verses encapsulate a dichotomy between divine grandeur and human insignificance. The supplicant articulates a poignant realization: in their fervent quest for knowledge and enlightenment, they are acutely aware of their limitations, akin to a moth yearning for the brilliance of a flame yet vulnerable to its searing heat. This metaphor underscores the delicate balance between aspiration and humility, wherein the pursuit of divine knowledge must be tempered with self-awareness and moral rectitude.

Moreover, the Fifth Supplication employs vivid imagery to portray God’s attributes. The Divine is depicted as a wise architect, with the cosmos intricately woven together like an elaborate tapestry. Each thread embodies a facet of creation, interrelated and interdependent. This artistic portrayal compels the supplicant to reflect upon their own existence within the cosmic design. It incites a sense of belonging, illustrating that every human being is an integral part of a grand divine plan. This realization fosters a profound respect for fellow beings, as each person emerges as a unique thread contributing to the overarching fabric.