Watchful Wujud and Watchful Shuhud are two

deal with the nature of God and concepts within Islamic mysticism (Sufism) that
creation, but with key differences:
Watchful Wujud (Unity of Being):
Developed by lbn Arabi (1165-1240 CE).
Core ldea: There is only one ultimate reality,
which is God. Everything else that exists is
manifestation or "shadow'" of God. simply a
Imagine the sun (God) and its rays (creation). The ravs are not
are also not the sun itself. separate from the sun, but they
This concept can be seen as blurring the lines
between God and creation, leading to some
interpretations bordering on pantheism (everything is God).
Watchful Shuhud (Unity of Witnessing):
Developed by Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi (1564-1624 CE) as a response to Wajehful
Wujud.
Core ldea: God is the only ultimate reality, but creation is also real and distinct
from God.
We can experience God's oneness by witnessing His signs and creation, but we should never lose
sight of His absolute difference from it.

Sirhindi emphasizes maintaining the distinction between God and creation to avoid
misinterpretations that might downplayGod's transcendence.
Here's a table summarizing the key points:
Feature Watchful Wujud (lbn Arabi) Watchful Shuhud
(Sirhindi)
Core ldea Unity of Being Unity of Witnessing
God and Creation Not fully separate Distinct but connected
God's transcendence
Emphasis God's all-encompassing nature
Wahdatul Wajud and Wahdatul Shuhud are concepts that originated within Islamic mysticism,
particularly in Sufi philosophy. They represent different perspectives on the nature of reality, the
relationship between God and creation, and the individual's spiritual journey.
Wahdatul Wajud (Unity of Being):
valtdatu wajud emphasizes the idea of the unity of existen ce., where everyth ing in the universe
IS Seen as a manifestation or reflection of the Divine Being (Allah). This concept suBBest et
there is only one ultimate reality, and all diversityand multiplicityare merely differenttatets o
 expressions of that underlying unity. In simpler
is terms, Watchful Wajud teaches that
interconnected and ultimately rooted in the divine
Key points of Wahdatul essence. everything
Wajud include:
Unity of existence: All things in
which is the Divine. the universe are
interconnected and share a common essence,
Oneness of being: The multiplicity of forms
true existence, which is God. and entities is an illusion; in
reality, there is only one
Annihilation of the self (Fana): The Sufi
the divine essence, experiencing a state ofpractitioner
oneness
aims to transcend the ego and
merge with
and unity.
Prominent Sufifigures associated with
Watchful Wajud include lbn Arabi, a medieval
mystic and philosopher, who wrote Andalusian
extensively on the subject.
Wahdatul Shuhud (Unity of Witnessing):
Watchful Shuhud, on the other hand, focuses on the
ontological nature of reality. It emphasizes the idea experiential aspect of unity rather than the
that while the ultimate reality is one, the
individual's perception and experience of that reality may vary. In
emphasis is on the journey of spiritual realization and the witnessing of Watchful Shuhud, the
divine unity within the
diversity of creation.
Key points of Wahdatul Shuhud include:

Unity in perception: The individual perceives and experiences the unity of existence through
spiritual insights, visions, and mystical experiences.
Multiplicity of forms: Unlike Watchful Wajud, which sees multiplicity as an illusion, Watchful
Shuhud acknowledges the diversity of creation but interprets it as a reflection of the underlying
unity.
Importance of spiritual practices: Sufi practices such as meditation, contemplation, and dhikr
(remembrance of God) are essential for attaining the state of unity in witnessing.
SuTI masters like Rumi and Al-Ghazali have explored the concepts related to Watchful Shuhud in
their writings and teachings.
1ts important to note that these concepts are deeply philosophical and mystical in nature, and
terpretations may vary among different Sufi orders and scholars. Some Sufis may emphasize
e perspective over the other, while others may seethem as complementary aspects of the
spiritual journey toward divine
realization.

2
 Sair ilallah and sair fil lah are terms used in
Sufism, the
two stages on the path towards Allah (God). Here's a mystical tradition within Islam, to describe
breakdown of each:
Sair llallah (Traveling to Allah):
This is the first stage where the seeker (salik)
focuses on purifying their heart and soul.
The goal is to remove all attachments to worldly things and
desires, leaving only Allah in their
heart.

This journey involves self-reflection, spiritual practices,and seeking guidance from a

Sheikh (Sufi
teacher).
Sair ilallah is about achieving ilm al-yaqin (knowledge of certainty) - understanding Allah exists
with full conviction.
Sair Fillah (Traveling in Allah):
After achieving some purification in sair ilallah, the salik enters sair fil lah.
This stage focuses on living a life completely dedicated to Allah's will.
The salik's actions and intentionsare driven by their love for Allah.
Through experiences and spiritual growth, the seeker moves towards ain al-yaqin (certainty of
experience) - a deeper, more personalconnection with Allah.
Sair fil lah is considered a continuus journey with no limit,where the salik constantly strives for
closeness to Allah.

Here's an analogy:
the
Imagine climbing a mountain (representing the spiritual journey). Sair ilallah is about clearing
path and focusing solely on the peak (Allah). Sair fil lah is the actual ascent, where every step is
taken with the goal of reaching the summit and experiencing the view from the top (closeness to
Allah).
Important Points:
Sair ilallah is typically undertaken with the guidance of a Sheikh.
Sair fil lah represents a more advanced stage on the Sufi path.
these
There are different nature and sequence of
stages. interpretations within Sufism about the exact
 "Sair fillah" and"Sair ilallah" are terms rooted in
that refer to different aspects of the spiritual
Islamic spirituality, particularlywithin Sufism,
journey and relationship with God. Let's explore
each term in more detail:
Sair fillah:

Meaning: Sair fillah translates to "journey in God" or "traveling for the sake of God." It refers to
the idea of undertaking a physical journey or migration for the purpose of seeking closeness to
God, spiritual growth, or spreading the message of Islam.
Concept: Sair fillah encompasses the notion of leaving one's comfort zone, whether it be
physically, emotionally, or spiritually, to embark on a path of devotion and service to God. This
journey may involve pilgrimage to sacred places, traveling to spread Islamic teachings, or
engaging in charitable work and community service.
Spiritual significance: Sufis and devout Muslims view Sair fillah as an opportunity to detach from
worldly distractions, deepen their connection with God, and fulfill their religious obligations and
responsibilities. It is seen as a form of selfless devotion and a means of acquiring spiritual merit.
Sair ilallah:
Meaning: Sair ilallah translates to "journey towards God" or "traveling for the sake of God." It
emphasizes the inward spiritual journey of the individual towards the divine presence of Allah.
Concept: Sair ilallah focuses on the inner dimensions of the spiritual path, including self
reflection, self-purification, and seeking nearness to God through acts of worship, contemplation,
enlightenment and
and adherence to Islamic teachings. It involves striving to attain spiritual
realization of the divine unity (Tawhid).
a lifelong journey of
Spiritual significance: Sufis and spiritual seekers regard Sair ilallah as prayer (Salah),
such as
transformation and purification of the soul. It involves practices
the virtues and qualities
remembrance of God (Dhikr), fasting (Sawm), and striving to embody
righteousness.
encouraged in Islam,such as compassion, humility, and
aspects of the Sufi path and broader Islamic
Both Sair fillah and Sair ilallah are interconnected ilallah
actions and service to humanity, Sair
spirituality. While Sair fillah emphasizes outward
inward journey of spiritual awakening and closeness to God. These concepts
emphasizes the
multifaceted nature of the Islamic spiritual tradition, encompassing both external
nighlight the consciousness and enlightenment.
actions and internal states of being in the pursuit of divine

Comparison
Let's compare Sair ilallah and Sair fillah with some examples to better
understand their
differences and similarities:
Objective and Focus:

Sair fillah: The objective of Sair fillah is primarily focused on outward actions and physical
journeys undertaken for the sake of God, This can include activities such as performing Hajj
(pilgrimage to Mecca), engaging in missionary work to spread Islamic teachings,or participating
in humanitarian efforts in regions affected by crises.
and
Example: Agroup of Muslim volunteers traveling to a remote village to provide medical aid
educational support to the local community would be considered Sair fillah.
journey and personal
Sair ilallah: In contrast, Sair ilallah emphasizes the inner spiritual
such as regular prayer,
development aimed at attaining closeness to God. This includes practices
striving to cultivate virtues like
self-retlection, seeking knowledge of the Ouran and Hadith, and
patience, humility,and compassion.
deep contemplation, meditation,
Example: An individual dedicating time each day toengage in
journey would be practicing Sair ilallah.
and recitation of Quranic verses as part of their spiritual
Means of Expression:
actions and visible forms of service
Sair fillah: The expression of Sair fillah often involves tangible
charitable initiatives, outreach
to humanity and the Muslim community. It can manifest through
programs, and effortstopromote social justice and equality.
Example: A Muslim organization organizing a fundraising campaign to provide clean water
solutions in underprivileged areas, aiming to fulfill the prophetic tradition of charitable giving
(Sadaqah).
Sair ilallah: Sair ilallah finds expression through inward states of devotion, sincerity, and
adherence to spiritual practices that deepen one's connection with God. It involves acts of
worship performed with a pure heart and conscious intention, seeking spiritual growth and
enlightenment.
Example: An individual dedicating nights to perform Tahajud prayers (optional night prayers)
with heartfelt sincerity and humility, seeking closeness to Allah and spiritual elevation.

Intent and Motivation:

 Cair fillah: The intent behind Sair fillah
is often
cerve others for the sake of God. It reflects a rooted in altruism, selflessness, and a desire to
sense of duty and responsibility towards the
Muslim community and humanity at large. broader
Example: A group of volunteers participating in a humanitarian mission to assist
by their faith-inspired belief in serving others as an act refugees, driven
of worship.
Sair ilallah: Sair ilallah is motivated by a deep longing for spiritual
fulfillment, enlightenment, and
divine closeness. It stems from a sincere devotion to God, a yearning for
self-improvement, and
acommitment to living a life aligned with Islamic principles and values.

Example: An individual dedicating time each day for self-reflection, repentance, and seeking
forgiveness as part of their spiritual journey, driven by a sincere desire to strengthen their bond
with Allah.

In summary, while Sair fillah emphasizes external actions, service,and social engagement for the
sake of God and humanity, Sair ilallah focuses on the internal aspects of spirituality, devotion,
and personal transformation aimed at drawing closer to God. Both concepts are integral to
towards
Islamic spirituality and represent complementary dimensions of the believer's journey
spiritual fulfillment and divine consciousness.

Sair llallah vs. Sair Fillah:AComparison with Examples

in a seeker's (salik's) journey
Sair ilallah and sair fillah are Sufi concepts representing stages
with relatable examples:
towards Allah (God). Here's a table outlining their differences
above all else might start attending
Sair llallah: A businessman who used to prioritize profit
sadaqah)to purifytheir intentions
spiritual lectures (dusy- ds) and donate to charity (äa-
(ii- niyyah).
care might volunteer at a free medical clinic
Sair Fillah: A doctor who already provides excellent serving
the desire to serve Allah through
or participate in medical missions, solely driven by
humanity.
Key Points:

Sair ilallah is foundational, like building a strong base before climbing.

deeper connection with Allah.
Sair fil lah is about continuous progress and experiencing a
lifetime.
The journey from one stage to the next is gradual and can take a
Sufiteachers can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
 Feature Sair llallah (Traveling to Allah)
Focus Purification, detachment from
worldly things
Achieve ilm al-yaqin (certainty
Goal
of knowledge)
Regularly practicing s (dhikr
- remenbrance of Allah)
Offering daily prayers
Action/Examples Seeking knowledge from a
Sheikh Avoiding negative
thoughts and actions Giving
away charity
Clearinga path on a mountain
Analogy towards the peak
Sair Fillah (Traveling in Allah)
Living completely forAllah's will
Deepen connection with Alah
through experience (ain al
yaqin)
Every action is done with the
intention of pleasing Allah"
Helping others selflessly
Feeling deep gratitude for
Allah's blessings Finding
contentment in all situations
Sharing love and compassion
Climbing the mountain itself,
experiencing the journey
iExport toSheets