Knowledge and Cognition
Question 4
If Sufi knowledge is part of religion, why should its attainment depend on an accomplished Shaikh? Why can’t it be achieved through the Book and the Sunnah alone?
No knowledge or skill can be acquired without a teacher. Proper understanding of the Book and the Sunnah depends on a perfect and experienced teacher. Mere study of books cannot reveal or unfold the mysteries of the Book and the reality of the Prophet
‘s Sunnah. Why should Tasawwuf than be considered an exception and the need of a perfect master, who alone has the capability to teach this science, be denied? The books on Tasawwuf can show the path but cannot lead one to the goal. The conditions, experiences, states and the meditations for spiritual growth cannot be learnt through books because there are no words to describe them. These blessings are attained from the heart, the spirit and the inner self of an accomplished Shaikh. Anyone who has not experienced the Divine friendship and cognition cannot attain wilayah. And I must reiterate that only an accomplished Shaikh with a strong heart can attract the spirit and illuminate the inner self of a seeker.