In the end of the famous poem of al-Imam al-Sayyid Abu al-Barakat al-Dardir The Illustrious Pearl the author addresses the foundations of spiritual rectification according to the teachings of Islam. The author himself was a well-known and respected scholar, worshipper of the highest caliber, and a man of tasawwuf.[1] Among the things that he addresses in this section is a commentary on the qualities of a true Shaykh.[2]

There is much conversation in the American Muslim community around the idea of fake shaykhs and cases of spiritual abuse. As such we felt that this small section may be valuable for those who understand the need for spiritual mentorship, but also recognize the very real potential dangers in such a relationship.

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[1] As a community we need not fear the word tasawwuf. In fact, this term and idea existed in the dictionary of Islamic terminology from very early on and was embraced, within the guidelines of aqidah and sharia, which will come, by Muslim scholarship. Deviations and excesses from those who claim a connection to tasawwuf do not take away from the truth of the concept and its centrality to how we understand our faith.

[2] “Shaykh” refers here to someone who is able to provide spiritual guidance and rectification for his or her followers, not what we commonly call anyone who has a college level Islamic education.