The Naqshbandi is a major Tariqa of Sunni Islam., also known as the Naqshbandiyyah, Nakşibendi, Naksibendi, Naksbandi. Sufism is the mystical dimension of Islam, and Sufi orders are spiritual and social organizations that aim to help their members seek a closer relationship with God. The Naqshbandi Order holds a prominent place in the Sufi tradition, and it has a distinctive approach to spiritual practice.
Just as there are three recognized streams of Islamic belief among Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaat, in the same way there are 4 recognized streams in the field of fiqh and madhhab in the interpretation and arrangement of Islamic science. Although there were several recognized Madhhabs at one time, they did not survive due to the fact that these sects were not properly preserved and compiled over the ages.
Similarly, many righteous people engaged in Tazqiyatun Nafs, Ihsaan and self-purification have contributed a lot. Among them, the later preserved and widespread 4 Dhara became famous. One of them is the Naqshbandiyya Tariqa.
These methods of self-purification are largely Sunnah. They began with the pursuit of self-purification by following the Sunnah and rejecting shirk and innovation. However, a group of dishonest, self-interested and ignorant people have infiltrated these streams with many types of superstitions and heresies. Not everyone says so.This tariqa was originally started by Shaykh Bahauddin Naqshbandi.
Naqshbandi in the subcontinent
One of the most influential personalities of the Naqshbandiyya Tariqa of the subcontinent is Shaikh Ahmad Sarhindi, who is also called Mujaddid Alfe Sani because of the nirmul of various heresies in the religion and the reformation of the religion. Mujaddid Alfe Sani reformed the Naqshbandiyya Tariqa. It is called the Naqshbandiyya-Mujaddidiya Tariqa.
Features
Before the introduction of the Naqshbandiyya Tariqa, Tasawuf was practiced from Nafs to Ilm. That is, a salik would first suppress the nafs and achieve takmil by chanting kalbi. But controlling the ego is a very difficult thing. Because of this, a salik needed a lot of time to achieve takmil.
Here are some key aspects of the Naqshbandi Order:
Founder and Lineage: Naqshbandi masters trace their Spiritual lineage or Golden Chain to the Islamic prophet Muhammad through Abu Bakr, the first Caliph of Sunni Islam and Ali, the fourth Caliph of Sunni Islam.It is because of this dual lineage through Ali and Abu Bakr through the 6th Imam Jafar al Sadiq that the order is also known as the "convergence of the two oceans" or "Sufi Order of Jafar al Sadiq".This lineage, known as silsila, became an integral part of the Naqshbandi tradition and is considered a source of spiritual authority.
Silent Dhikr: The Naqshbandi Sufis are known for their emphasis on silent remembrance of God (dhikr). This involves inner meditation and focusing on the heart, often without vocalizing prayers.
Spiritual Discipline: The order places a strong emphasis on spiritual discipline, self-control, and adherence to Islamic principles. Practitioners aim to purify their hearts and souls through rigorous self-examination and spiritual striving (mujahada).
Adab (Manners): Adab, or proper conduct and manners, is highly valued in the Naqshbandi tradition. Practitioners are encouraged to display humility, respect for others, and sincerity in their spiritual journey.
Khalifa System: The Naqshbandi Order often operates with a hierarchical structure of spiritual leadership. A designated spiritual leader, known as a khalifa, guides and instructs disciple, fostering a mentor-disciple relationship.
Zikr Gatherings: Followers of the Naqshbandi Order commonly gather for spiritual sessions called dhikr circles or zikr gatherings. During these sessions, participants engage in collective remembrance of God through chanting, meditation, and other spiritual practices.
Global Presence: The Naqshbandi Order has a widespread presence, with followers and affiliated branches in various parts of the world. Different branches of the order may have variations in their practices and local customs.
It's important to recognize that Sufi orders, including the Naqshbandi Order, contribute to the rich diversity of Islamic spirituality. Sufism focuses on the inner, mystical aspects of Islam, providing a path for individuals to deepen their connection with God and enhance their spiritual well-being.
11 Principles of Naqshbandiyya:
The Naqshbandi Sufi Order is known for its emphasis on spiritual discipline, adherence to Islamic principles, and a specific set of principles that guide its followers on the path of Sufism. While the number and formulation of these principles may vary among different branches and leaders of the Naqshbandiyya, here is a commonly mentioned set of principles associated with the Naqshbandi Order:
Sincerity (Ikhlas): Devote all actions and intentions solely to God, seeking His pleasure without any desire for personal gain or recognition.
Watchfulness of the Heart (Muraqaba): Maintain constant awareness and mindfulness of God's presence in the heart, striving to purify the heart from negative qualities.
Remembrance of God (Dhikr): Engage in the remembrance of God through various forms of dhikr, placing particular emphasis on silent and constant remembrance.
Following the Sunnah: Adhere closely to the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad, following the Sunnah (traditions) as a guide for righteous living.
Contentment (Qana'ah): Be satisfied with what God provides and avoid excessive attachment to material possessions or worldly desires.
Patience and Gratitude (Sabr and Shukr): Cultivate patience in the face of challenges and express gratitude for the blessings bestowed by God.
Love and Respect for the Prophet Muhammad: Maintain a deep love and respect for the Prophet Muhammad, considering him as the perfect example of human conduct.
The Company of the People of God (Suhba): Seek the company of spiritually advanced individuals and cultivate relationships with those who guide and inspire on the path of righteousness.
Repentance (Tawbah): Regularly turn to God in repentance for any shortcomings or sins, seeking forgiveness and striving for self-improvement.
Observance of the Rights of Others: Uphold justice, kindness, and compassion in dealings with others, recognizing and fulfilling their rights.
Contentment with God's Will (Rida): Accept and submit to God's will with contentment, recognizing that His wisdom surpasses human understanding.
These principles are intended to guide Naqshbandi Sufis on their spiritual journey, emphasizing both the internal aspects of self-purification and the external aspects of righteous conduct in the world. It's important to note that the specific articulation of these principles may vary, and different leaders within the Naqshbandi tradition may emphasize certain aspects based on their interpretation of the teachings.
See Also
- Sufi Order
- List of Golden Chain
- Naqshbandiya Golden Chain
- Qadriya Sufi Order
- Sufism
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