Introduction:
Divine love or Ishq (in Arabic) encapsulates the profound essence of deep and ardent love. This term has been extensively used in Sufi poetry and literature throughout the history to describe selfless, ardent and burning love for Allah. The intensity of this word defies easy comparison or contrast.
Divine Love as described in Sufism
Divine love is sometimes metaphorised as fire and other times to the depths of the sea. It is the most intense and powerful passion bestowed upon humans. According to Sufi Saints, it is a driving force that directs a man towards Divine Essence. It leads them beyond worldly constraints, guiding towards Oneness of Allah.
Divine Love by means of Metaphorical Love
It is Divine love that transcends one towards Allah Almighty through metaphorical love (love for perfect spiritual guide). Divine love transforms one’s personality. It is Divine love by means of which the Companions rose to eternal spiritual heights.
How to be successful in Divine love?
The companionship of ‘beloved’ is essential on the path of Divine love. The beloved, in path of Divine love, refers to perfect and accomplished spiritual guide. One has to sacrifice everything for the sake of beloved spiritual guide to attain Divine love.
Divine lover prioritises the happiness of the beloved over his own. It is like a fire that constantly burns in the inward of Divine lover. Divine love continues to ignite passion and yearning of seeker for Allah. It is the most powerful force that encompasses all forms of affection and love, both apparent and hidden. Hence, negating everything from the inward of Divine lover except Allah.
We read countless examples throughout the history of Sufism where revered Sufis and Mystics not only pledged allegiance to perfect spiritual guides physically but spent their entire lives engrossed in metaphorical love. These Sufi Saints expressed their ardent love and devotion to their guides through their writings, poetry, and teachings.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman
The Universal Divine Man of the present era, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman is the living embodiment of Divine love. He pursued the mission of Divine love. And with courage and Allah’s favour, he succeeded in every test and trial with the power of Divine love. In fact, Divine love aids in facing the challenges on the path of Faqr by blessing the seeker with patience, determination, and perseverance.
Quotes of Sultan ul Ashiqeen about Divine Love
- When the intensity of Divine love reaches its peak, it begins to wane and transforms into inner tranquillity. In other words, when love reaches its zenith, the lover attains Divine vision and union and it is within this vision and union that the lover finds serenity. Although some Divine lovers do not find peace at any level, their plea of ھَلْ مِنْ مَّزِیْد
Meaning “Is there any more?” again propels them from tranquillity to restlessness. In this manner, they attain yet another level of Divine union and find solace. Subsequently, they become restless again, only to immerse themselves in Divine union once more. This cycle persists until they become the beloved of Allah. - Truth is distinguished from falsehood in the arena of love.
- Faith is incomplete without Divine love.
- Respect and regard for the Beloved is the first and foremost rule of love.