THE SUFI WAY OF SELF-UNFOLDMENT
(Excerpts Only)

By: Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri

Introduction

This book is based on a collection of talks which were given recently in the United States. The sixties and seventies witnessed resurgences in various spheres of mysticism, spirituality and related endeavors or topics, including the manifestation of formal prescriptive Islam in various forms. The reactions were both positive and negative, causing many people to begin to awaken to a better understanding of this ever vibrant faith, the last revealed of the world's great religions.

These talks attempt to show the gnostic and mystical origin of all religions and indeed the original creation of man himself. They endeavor to relate the inner meanings and awakenings that all these spiritual paths intend to bring about as a result of outer disciplines and practices. There can be no doubt that there is only one message in man's heart, to be fulfilled, to live a life that is honorable and fearless, that has within it no darkness, ignorance or abuse. We see, however, that throughout the ages man's history has been one of turmoil, and all civilizations, be they good or bad, have been cyclical. This phenomenon is part of the nature of creational Reality. It signifies that this existence is one of continuous change and dynamic movement. Any change implies a certain fixed parameter by means of which it can be measured; a fixed parameter that lies in man's heart and which he recognizes as being the ultimate model that is fit for this highest creational manifestation, man himself.

This noble way of living has been described by prophets, gnostics and men of awakening in different fashions, according to different cultures and times. These descriptions of the ultimate way of living show us the role man has to play in his own evolvement, by following a path of correct conduct that will lead him through dynamic action and continuous purification of intentions to freedom from useless and negative anxieties. It is as though Nature intended a certain direction for mankind, yet at the same time has given man a degree of freedom so through experimentation he may discern and understand what was originally intended of him. The sufferings and difficulties, that he experiences, act as danger signals warning him to avoid situations that will cause him anxiety and anguish. Our own inner preferences guide us to learn Nature's way.

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