“The moment one’s thought seeks consultation with one’s spirit as to the merit of the thought, the journey to re-acquaintance with one’s divinity has begun.”

-Ibn Al Amine

Bismillah Ar-Rahman Ar-Raheem, salaam alaykum dear readers,

Most of us can come to an agreement that today more than ever, individuals are deeply occupied in the physical material world; identifying with the body instead of the inner self. What we must remember: the spirit is the core of a human being and the body is merely the means for the expression of the spirit in this dunya.

Ways to Manifest Spirituality

Seek Truth & Justice

“No individual is lost and no nation is refused prosperity and success if the foundations of their thoughts and actions rest upon piety and godliness, and upon truth and justice.”

– ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib [ Sermon 21, Nahjul-Balagha]

In order to come back to a state of divinity one must look into the truth (make-up of reality) and justice (conforming to the order of reality). Questions will come to mind: “Who am I?”, “What is truth?”, “What is the purpose of life?”, “How should we relate to others?” These questions are valid and necessary; spend time contemplating what truth & justice means to you by using reason/logic, your experience, studying nature/universe, and history.

Most importantly, once you think you know, reflect again. Keep transcending and pushing your intellectual & spiritual confines. For more, read this article by M. Ali Lakhani.

Absorb the Beauty of the Qur’an

O mankind! Certainly a proof has come to you from your Lord, and We have sent down to you a manifest light.

– [Quran 4:174]

The Qur’an itself says that it is a clear proof and manifest light to the straight path. In the extraordinary pages you will find not only scientific wonders but also the persistence that one must reflect and find truth.

For every situation you might face, there lies guidance. An instruction manual if you will of sorts. Who knows us better than we know ourselves, Allah (swt). The Qur’an is the direct word of God to guide, teach, inspire, motivate and to work against social & spiritual darkness such as egoism, greed, oppression and discrimination. Drawing closer to the word of Allah (swt) will bring your spirit back in line. Some topics to explore in the Qur’an include: the verbal splendor and style of the Qur’an, spiritual dimensions of man, mysteries of the creations, and the governing of human life.

Thankfulness

“Very few of my servants are grateful.”

– [Qur’an 34:13]

One must first understand that God is not in need or does not benefit from our gratitude. It is actually for our happiness and spiritual well-being that we give thanks. We must also acknowledge that if we were to thank Allah (swt) with every breath until the day we die it would not be sufficient for all the bounties (known & unknown) bestowed upon us.

Start by recognizing that the source of the favor & mercy is from God. If you’ve been blessed with wealth, knowledge, or a leading position in society etc, use that blessing in a way that shows gratitude by engaging in acts of obedience that please Allah (swt).

“God forbid that before a person develops himself, that people should pay heed to him, that he should become a personality and have influence among the people, causing him to loose his soul. Before you loose hold of the reins of your self, develop and reform yourself! Adorn yourselves with good traits, and remove your vices! Become pure in your lessons and discussions, so that you may approach God!”

– Ayatullah Sayyid Ruhallah Musawi Khomeini

When one’s intellect and spirit are synchronized and in harmony, in that they have reached a plane of mutual inclusivity, then one is divinely inspired in action and thought.

Your participation in discourse is most welcome & appreciated. Write a comment below to contribute to the conversation!