Hazrat Shaikh Sayyid Abdul Razzaq Jilani is honored as Sultan ul Faqr IV in the spiritual hierarchy of Sufism, carrying forward the profound legacy of his illustrious father, Hazrat Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (Ghaus-e-Azam). Born into a family renowned for its piety, spirituality, and commitment to the path of Faqr (spiritual poverty), Shaikh Abdul Razzaq became an essential figure in the Sufi tradition, particularly within the Qadiri order, which was established by his father.
Shaikh Sayyid Abdul Razzaq Jilani is remembered not only for his devotion and deep knowledge of Islamic mysticism but also for his ability to guide seekers on the path of spiritual realization. His life and teachings embody the principles of love, self-purification, and total reliance on Allah, core elements of the Faqr tradition.
Early Life and Education
Shaikh Abdul Razzaq Jilani was born in Baghdad, a city that was a thriving center for Islamic learning and spirituality during his time. As the son of Ghaus-e-Azam, he grew up surrounded by the teachings of Islam and the spiritual legacy of his father. From a young age, Abdul Razzaq demonstrated exceptional intelligence, humility, and a deep desire to follow in the footsteps of his father, not only in terms of scholarship but also in spiritual devotion.
He received his early education under the guidance of his father, learning the Quran, Hadith, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Tasawwuf (Sufism). His father’s profound influence shaped his spiritual outlook, instilling in him a commitment to the highest ideals of Sufism and Islamic practice.
Spiritual Development and Role as Sultan ul Faqr IV
Shaikh Abdul Razzaq was naturally inclined towards a life of spirituality, where the emphasis was on inner purification and closeness to Allah. As Sultan ul Faqr IV, his primary focus was on helping others attain spiritual elevation through Tawheed (the oneness of God) and Tazkiya (self-purification).
He was known for his deep understanding of Faqr, a state of total submission to Allah, where worldly attachments are cast aside, and the soul seeks nothing but Divine pleasure. His teachings, like his father’s, stressed that true spiritual poverty (Faqr) means being spiritually rich in the love and connection with Allah, while having no reliance on worldly possessions or status.
Key Teachings and Contributions
Shaikh Abdul Razzaq Jilani’s teachings built upon the rich spiritual legacy of his father but also brought a unique depth of insight into the practice of Sufism. His contribution to the path of Faqr includes guiding countless seekers toward spiritual realization, emphasizing personal transformation through love for Allah, humility, and service to humanity.
Key Teachings:
- The Path of Faqr: Like his father, Shaikh Abdul Razzaq advocated for the path of Faqr, where the seeker abandons all worldly desires and places complete trust in Allah. He believed that true wealth is found in spiritual contentment and connection to God, not in material possessions. He emphasized the importance of internal detachment while fulfilling one’s duties in the world.
- Purification of the Heart (Tazkiya): Shaikh Abdul Razzaq highlighted the importance of Tazkiya, or purification of the heart, as a means to attain closeness to Allah. He taught that only by removing negative traits such as pride, greed, and jealousy can one open the heart to the Divine. His approach to spiritual training included practical guidance on how to discipline the self (Nafs) and purify one’s intentions.
- Love and Devotion to Allah: Central to his teachings was the concept of Ishq-e-Haqiqi (Divine Love), where love for Allah surpasses all worldly attachments. He guided his followers to seek this pure love, which leads to spiritual enlightenment and the realization of Allah’s presence in all aspects of life. He taught that love is the ultimate motivator for all actions in the path of spirituality.
- Service to Humanity: Like his father, Shaikh Abdul Razzaq believed that service to humanity was an essential part of the spiritual path. He encouraged his followers to help the poor, care for the needy, and be a source of comfort and support for those around them. Through service, one purifies the soul and earns closeness to Allah.
- Spiritual Leadership: As a spiritual guide and leader of the Qadiri order, Shaikh Abdul Razzaq Jilani continued his father’s mission of spreading the teachings of Islam through Sufism. He was a beacon of guidance for many disciples, helping them navigate their spiritual journeys and providing counsel on matters of both spiritual and worldly life.
Influence and Legacy
Shaikh Sayyid Abdul Razzaq Jilani’s influence extended far beyond Baghdad. His leadership in the Qadiri order helped spread the teachings of Sufism across the Islamic world. The Qadiri order, known for its emphasis on love, humility, and submission to God, flourished under his guidance, reaching regions as far as India, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
As Sultan ul Faqr IV, Shaikh Abdul Razzaq Jilani continued the spiritual lineage that is central to Sufism’s focus on the heart’s connection with Allah. His wisdom, humility, and deep knowledge of both Islamic law and spirituality made him a revered figure among scholars, Sufis, and laypeople alike.
His teachings on Faqr, self-purification, and love for Allah are still studied and followed by spiritual seekers today. His legacy lives on through the disciples he trained, the books he wrote, and the impact of his spiritual wisdom on the lives of countless individuals.