Principles of Islam
52. Spiritual Uplift
~ 157 ~
complaining about is that all of you came here in
the garb of Sufis yet acted as hunters. Had you
come here in hunter’s garb, we would certainly
have remained on the alert. When we saw you in
the guise of Sufis, we thought that we were safe
with you and remained perched on the top of the
tree without being properly vigilant.
This anecdote illustrates very well the reality of a
true religious person or spiritual person for that
matter.
One who has reached the stage of spiritual uplift,
and has found the true essence of religion no longer
has the will or the capacity to do harm. He gives life
not death, to others. He benefits others, doing no
injury to anyone. In short, he lives among the
people like flowers and not like thorns. He has
nothing but love in his heart to bestow upon others.
Now I should like to say a few words about prayer
and meditation in Islam. Let me begin with a
question from the Qur’an: “When My servants
question you about Me, tell them that I am near. I
answer the prayer of the suppliant when he calls to
Me; therefore, let them answer My call and put their
