Sufi Quotes of Ibrahim bin Adham in English and Arabic

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Brief Biography of Ibrahim bin Adham

Ibrahim bin Adham was one of the great Sufis in the world of mysticism. His full name is Ibrahim bin Adham bin Manshur bin Yazid bin Jabir. He was born at the beginning of the 100th year of the Hijra. He was one of the sons of the king of Balkh.

There are differing accounts of Ibrahim bin Adham’s story, from being a royal prince living in luxury to becoming a great ascetic Sufi. One account describes that while he was hunting, he heard a divine voice speaking to him, saying that he was not created and commanded for this purpose. Upon hearing the voice, he dismounted from his horse and removed his luxurious clothing. He then donned simple garments and departed.

Read Also: Sufi Quotes of Ibrahim At-Taimi bin Yazid Al-Kufi in English and Arabic

Another account describes that one day he was riding his horse and heard a voice from above. The voice said:

اَفَحَسِبْتُمْ اَنَّمَا خَلَقْنٰكُمْ عَبَثًا وَّاَنَّكُمْ اِلَيْنَا لَا تُرْجَعُوْنَ

Do you think that We created you in vain (without purpose) and that you will not be returned to Us? (Al-Mu’minun [23]: 115).

In addition to the above verse, Ibrahim bin Adham also heard a voice instructing him to be mindful of Allah and prepare for the Hereafter. He then renounced worldly life and devoted himself to worship for the sake of the Hereafter. He went on to wander in the desert regions.

The two accounts mentioned are just a few of the narratives describing the beginning of Ibrahim bin Adham’s journey into the world of Sufism. There are many other accounts that explain this in greater detail which I cannot include here. Despite the differences in these accounts, Ibrahim bin Adham remains one of the great Sufis whose life story continues to inspire Muslims. Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, in his book "Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah," categorizes Ibrahim bin Adham as one of the great Sufi figures of the second generation.

Sufi Quotes of Ibrahim bin Adham in English and Arabic

There are many Sufi quotes of Ibrahim bin Adham. Unfortunately, I cannot explain them all right now. In this article, I will only explain some of his Sufi quotes.

Some Sufi quotes of Ibrahim bin Adham in English and Arabic that I will discuss are as follows:

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on True Freedom and Dignity

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on true freedom and dignity, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

أَنَّ الرَّجُلَ الْحُرَّ الْكَرِيْمَ مَنْ تَخْرُجُ نَفْسُهُ عَنِ الدُّنْيَا قَبْلَ أَنْ يَخْرُجَ مِنْهَا[1]

Indeed, the truly free and noble person is one whose soul has departed from the world before their body.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that true freedom and nobility are not measured by physical condition or social status but by spiritual condition. A person who is truly free and noble is one who has managed to detach from worldly attachments and material desires before their physical death. In this context, "the soul departs from the world" means that a person has reached a level of wisdom and inner peace that makes them unaffected by worldly temptations and pleasures. They live with heightened awareness and the ability to see and understand life from a deeper perspective, disregarding temporary worldly ambitions and pleasures. In other words, they achieve a higher spiritual freedom and dignity before leaving their physical body.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Rights in Brotherhood and Friendship

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the rights in brotherhood and friendship, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

مَنْ قَالَ لِأَخِيْهِ : أَعْطِنِي مِنْ مَالِكَ , فَقَالَ : كَمْ تُرِيْدُ ؟ فَمَا قَامَ بِحَقِّ الْأُخُوَّةِ . وَمَنْ دَعَاهُ أَخُوْهُ إِلَى حَاجَةٍ فَقَالَ : إِلَى أَيْنَ ؟ فَمَا قَامَ بِحَقِّ الصُّحْبَةِ[2]

Whoever says to his brother, "Give me your wealth," and then asks, "How much do you want?" is not fulfilling the right of brotherhood. Whoever is invited by his brother for a need and asks, "Where to?" is not fulfilling the right of friendship.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains the rights that should be given in relationships of brotherhood and friendship according to Islamic teachings. If someone asks their brother for wealth in a direct manner, without showing concern for the brother’s needs or intentions, they are considered not to be fulfilling the right of brotherhood. Similarly, if someone is invited or asked to fulfill a need or participate in something, and they only inquire about the destination without showing willingness or concern for the purpose, they are considered not to be fulfilling the right of friendship. Essentially, this Sufi quote emphasizes the importance of empathy, concern, and support in social relationships, and how actions or responses that lack attention can damage healthy bonds of brotherhood and friendship.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Generosity, Dignity, and Kindness

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on generosity, dignity, and kindness, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

[3]ذَهَبَ السَّخَاءُ وَالْكَرَمُ وَالْجُوْدُ , فَمَنْ لَمْ يُوَاسِ النَّاسَ بِذَلِكَ فَلْيُوَاسِهِمْ بِبَسْطِ الْوَجْهِ وَحُسْنِ الْخُلُقِ

Generosity, nobility, and kindness have disappeared. Whoever wishes to comfort people with these qualities should do so through a warm face (smile) and good manners.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that traits such as generosity, nobility, and kindness may now be rare or diminishing. In such situations, if someone wants to bring joy and goodness to others, they should do so in a simple yet meaningful way, through a friendly demeanor and good etiquette. Showing kindness through a smile and polite behavior is an effective way to comfort and uplift others, especially when material generosity and kindness cannot be provided. This emphasizes the importance of a positive attitude and good manners in building harmonious relationships and spreading happiness, even when material resources may be limited.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on True Character

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on true character, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

قَالَ لُقْمَانُ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَامُ : لَا يُعْرَفُ الْحَلِيْمُ إِلَّا عِنْدَ الْغَضَبِ , وَلَا الشُّجَاعُ إِلَّا عِنْدَ الْحَرْبِ , وَلَا الْإِخْوَانُ إِلَّا عِنْدَ الْحَاجَةِ[4]

Luqman (peace be upon him) said, “A person’s patience is only recognized in times of anger, courage is only seen in times of war, and friendship is only evident in times of need.”

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that a person's true character can only be measured in challenging situations. Luqman (peace be upon him) expresses that a person's patience is revealed when they face anger or difficulties; their courage becomes apparent in dangerous situations such as war; and the loyalty of a friend is evident when faced with need or hardship. In other words, a person's true character is tested and revealed in extreme or difficult conditions, not in ordinary or comfortable situations. This underscores the importance of facing challenges to demonstrate these qualities and how difficult situations can reflect a person's integrity and values.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Indications of Unethical Behavior

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on indications of unethical behavior, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

مِنْ لُؤْمِ الرَّجُلِ أَنْ يَرْفَعَ يَدَهُ مِنَ الطَّعَامِ قَبْلَ أَصْحَابِهِ[5]

One of the signs of a person’s rudeness is if they lift their hand from the food before their companions.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that one indication of a lack of etiquette or manners is when a person leaves the food before their companions have finished. This action reflects a disregard for social decorum and the norms of shared eating. In many cultures, especially in social and religious contexts, there are certain rules or etiquette regarding eating that reflect respect and politeness toward others. By lifting their hand from the food before their friends are finished, a person demonstrates a lack of respect and consideration for those around them, as well as neglecting the principles of sharing and togetherness. This underscores the importance of maintaining proper manners and showing concern for others in social situations, particularly during communal meals.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Wealth and Prosperity

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on wealth and prosperity, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

طَلَبْنَا الْفَقْرَ فَاسْتَقْبَلَنَا الْغِنَى , وَطَلَبَ النَّاسُ الْغِنَى فَاسْتَقْبَلَهُمْ الْفَقْرُ[6]

We sought poverty, and sufficiency came to us. People seek sufficiency, and poverty comes to them.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains the difference between approaches to seeking wealth and well-being. He illustrates that those who focus on seeking poverty or simplicity, in the sense of living modestly and without excessive ambition, often find sufficiency and abundance in their lives. Conversely, those who are overly focused on pursuing wealth and material sufficiency often end up experiencing poverty or lack. This highlights that intentions and goals in life play a crucial role in the outcomes achieved. When someone prioritizes inner contentment and simplicity, they may receive more than expected. On the other hand, pursuing material wealth with excessive fervor can lead to dissatisfaction and scarcity in life.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Serving Allah

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on serving Allah, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

[7]عَامِلِ اللهَ يُرِيْكَ الْعَجَائِبَ

Serve Allah, and He will show you miracles.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that serving Allah will open the way to experiencing miracles in life. This concept suggests that by dedicating oneself to Allah through worship, acts of kindness, and adherence to His teachings, one will be granted extraordinary mercy and assistance. These miracles can take various forms, such as blessings, solutions to problems, or profound spiritual experiences that cannot be explained rationally. Essentially, sincere service to Allah will bring about experiences and support that surpass ordinary limits and lead to positive changes in one’s life. This underscores the belief that a strong relationship with God can have a significant and extraordinary impact on both personal and spiritual life.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Being Cautious of Deception

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on being cautious of deception, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

[8]إِيَّاكُمْ وَالْغِرَّةَ بِاللهِ , لَا تَغُرَّنَّكُمْ الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا , وَلَا يَغُرَّنَّكُمْ بِاللهِ الْغَرُوْرُ

You must be cautious of deception because of Allah's blessings. Indeed, let not the worldly life deceive you. Indeed, let not the blessings of Allah lead you to be deceived by the deceiver.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham warns to be wary of deception that may arise from the worldly life and its illusions. Even though one may experience goodness and blessings from Allah, it is crucial to remain vigilant so as not to be misled by the transient temptations of the world. This message emphasizes that wealth, pleasure, or worldly achievements that appear enticing can be sources of deception if not approached with wisdom. Allah's blessings should not cause one to become complacent or entranced, leading to entrapment in worldly illusions that can misguide. In this context, maintaining awareness and caution in dealing with worldly temptations is part of preserving faith and spiritual integrity.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Mistakes in Seeking Happiness and Satisfaction in Life

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on mistakes in seeking happiness and satisfaction in life, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

طَلَبَ النَّاسُ الدُّنْيَا بِالرِّضَا وَالْغَضَبِ , فَلَمْ يَنَالُوْا مِنْهَا حَاجَتَهُمْ , وَإِنَّهُ مَنْ أَرَادَ الْآخِرَةَ كَانَ النَّاسُ مِنْهُ فِى رَاحَةٍ[9]

People seek the world with both contentment and anger, but they do not obtain anything from it to satisfy their needs. Indeed, whoever desires the Hereafter finds tranquility from it.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that human efforts to seek happiness and satisfaction in worldly life are often driven by various emotions, whether with contentment or anger. However, these pursuits often do not fully meet their inner needs. Conversely, if a person focuses on the Hereafter and directs their intentions towards achieving spiritual happiness and satisfaction there, they will experience greater tranquility and contentment. This underscores that true satisfaction and inner peace cannot be completely found in worldly achievements but rather in the pursuit and preparation for the Hereafter. Focusing on the ultimate goal of the Hereafter provides a deeper sense of tranquility and satisfaction compared to the potentially fleeting nature of material pursuits.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Truth and Falsehood

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on truth and falsehood, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

[10]لَا يَقِلُّ مَعَ الْحَقِّ فَرِيْدٌ , وَلَا يَقْوَى مَعَ الْبَاطِلِ عَدِيْدٌ

One person on the side of truth will not be weak, and many people on the side of falsehood will not be strong.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that truth possesses an intrinsic strength that can empower an individual, whereas falsehood, despite its apparent dominance or control, does not provide true strength. Someone who stands by the truth will always have moral and spiritual strength, regardless of the situations or challenges they face. Conversely, even if many people are on the side of falsehood, their number or physical strength does not guarantee true success or strength. This message emphasizes that integrity and courage in upholding the truth are more valuable and powerful than the strength derived from falsehood or untruth. Truth has an inherent allure and profound power, while falsehood lacks enduring strength, even though it may appear dominant in the short term.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Piety (Wirai)

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on piety (wirai), take a look at the Sufi quote below!

لَا يَتِمُّ الْوَرَعُ إِلَّا بِتَسْوِيَةِ كُلِّ الْخَلْقِ فِى قَلْبِكَ , وَالْإِشْتِغَالِ عَنْهُمْ بِذَنْبِكَ , وَعَلَيْكَ بِالذِّكْرِ مِنْ قَلْبٍ ذَلِيْلٍ لِرَبٍّ جَلِيْلٍ , وَفَكِّرْ فِى ذَنْبِكَ , وَاحْسِمْ الطَّمْعَ إِلَّا مِنْ رَبِّكَ , وَتُبْ إِلَيْهِ يُنْبِتُ الْوَرَعَ فِى قَلْبِكَ[11]

Piety (wirai) will not be complete except by equating all beings in your heart, being preoccupied with lamenting your sins, and leaving them. You must remember Allah with a heart humbled before the Majestic Lord, reflect on your sins, and eliminate greed except for seeking closeness to your Lord. Repent to Him, and piety (wirai) will grow in your heart.

In the above Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that piety or wirai can only be achieved if one can equalize all beings in their heart, without looking down on or elevating anyone. The key to piety lies in focusing on repentance for one's own sins, abandoning worldly desires, and remembering Allah with a heart that is submissive and humble. One must engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and continually reflect on their own faults, while discarding all desires and greed except for the desire to draw closer to Allah. By sincerely repenting to Him, piety will grow within one's heart. Essentially, true piety is achieved through deep introspection, repentance for sins, humility, and complete surrender to Allah.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Virtue of Fear of Allah

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the fear of Allah, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

إِنَّمَا يَزُوْلُ عَنْ قَلْبِكَ هَوَاكَ , إِذَا خِفْتَ مَنْ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّهُ يَرَاك[12]

Indeed, evil desires will depart from your heart if you fear the Lord whom you know is always watching you.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that evil desires in a person's heart can vanish if they have a fear of God. This fear arises from the belief that God is always observing and watching every action. With the awareness that God knows everything one does, a person will be more cautious in their actions and strive to avoid the temptations of evil desires. This fear of God acts as a self-restraint, protecting the heart from negative inclinations and encouraging a person to remain on the right path. Essentially, the divine supervision believed by a person becomes a crucial tool for curbing evil desires and strengthening piety within oneself.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Heart Being Blocked from Allah

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on a heart being blocked from Allah, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

[13]إِنَّمَا حُجِبَتْ الْقُلُوْبُ عَنِ اللهِ لِكَوْنِهَا أَحَبَّتْ مَا أَبْغَضَهُ , فَمَالَتْ لِلدُّنْيَا وَتَرَكَتْ الْعَمَلَ لِدَارٍ فِيْهَا حَيَاةُ الْأَبَدِ

Indeed, the heart is blocked from Allah because it loves something that He dislikes. It is inclined toward the world and does not act for the home where eternal life resides.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that a person's heart can be obstructed from closeness to Allah if it is filled with love for something that He dislikes. When someone is overly attached to the world and worldly matters, such as wealth, power, or temporary pleasures, their heart becomes distant from Allah. This happens because love for the world causes a person to neglect preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. As a result, they fail to perform the deeds that should be their provisions for the Hereafter. Excessive love for the world prevents a person from spirituality and closeness to God, as their focus and priorities shift from what Allah likes to temporary pleasures that will eventually fade away.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Essence of Worshiping Allah

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the essence of worshiping Allah, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

الصَّائِمُ الْقَائِمُ الْمُصَلِّى الْحَاجُّ الْغَازِى مَنْ أَغْنَى نَفْسَهُ عَنِ النَّاسِ[14]

People who fast, worship at night, pray, perform Hajj, and engage in jihad are those who suffice themselves from relying on others.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that those who practice acts of worship such as fasting, praying at night, performing prayers, undertaking Hajj, and participating in jihad are those who are self-sufficient and do not rely on other people. These acts of worship reflect their complete dependence on Allah, rather than on human beings. They seek their spiritual fulfillment and needs through a direct relationship with Allah, not through the help or recognition of others. By engaging in these acts of worship, they demonstrate that they are content with what Allah provides and do not ask for or expect anything from fellow humans.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Silence

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on silence, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

[15]وَقِيْلَ لَهُ : إِنَّ فُلَانًا يَتَعَلَّمُ النَّحْوَ . فَقَالَ : هُوَ إِلَى تَعَلُّمِ الصُّمْتِ أَحْوَجُ

He was told (Ibrahim bin Adham), “So-and-so is studying grammar.” He then said, “He needs to learn to be silent more.”

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham suggests that a person studying grammar needs to focus more on learning to be silent. This statement reflects Ibrahim’s view that silence and self-control, particularly in speech, may be more important than mastering grammatical knowledge or other worldly sciences. Silence in this context refers to the wisdom of speaking carefully, restraining the tongue from unnecessary words, and engaging in more reflection or remembrance (dhikr). Ibrahim bin Adham emphasizes that spiritual etiquette, such as maintaining silence, can be more fundamental and significant than acquiring worldly knowledge, as silence also helps in controlling one's ego and desires, which are crucial aspects of the spiritual journey.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on an Example of Worldly Love

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on an example of worldly love, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

حُبُّ لِقَاءِ النَّاسِ مِنْ حُبِّ الدُّنْيَا , وَتَرْكُهُمْ مِنْ تَرْكِ الدُّنْيَا , وَمَنْ أَحَبَّ الشُّهْرَةَ لَمْ يُصْدِقْ اللهَ فِى أَعْمَالِهِ[16]

The desire to meet people is a form of worldly love. Avoiding them is akin to leaving the world. Whoever seeks fame does not honor Allah in their actions.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that the desire to frequently interact with or gather with people reflects a form of worldly love, as such interactions are often driven by the desire for recognition, praise, or other worldly satisfactions. Conversely, distancing oneself from social gatherings and choosing solitude reflects an effort to forsake worldly love and draw closer to Allah. The quote also emphasizes that those who pursue fame or popularity are not sincere in their relationship with Allah. Those who seek fame are more focused on the opinions of people rather than the view of Allah, thus their actions are not truly sincere for His sake. The main message of this Sufi quote is the importance of avoiding worldly love and fame, and focusing on sincerity in actions and relationship with Allah.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Danger of Frequently Seeing Falsehood

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the danger of frequently seeing falsehood, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

كَثْرَةُ النَّظَرِ إِلَى الْبَاطِلِ تَذْهَبُ بِمَعْرِفَةِ الْحَقِّ مِنَ الْقَلْبِ[17]

Frequently seeing falsehood can erase the recognition of the Truth from the heart.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that frequently being exposed to falsehood—things that are wrong, incorrect, or contrary to the truth—can erode the knowledge and recognition of the Truth (Allah or true reality) within a person’s heart. When the heart and mind are constantly exposed to what is untrue, spiritual values and awareness of the truth from Allah become eroded. As a result, a person becomes less sensitive to the truth and tends to drift away from Allah. This Sufi quote emphasizes the importance of protecting one’s sight and mind from things that can damage one’s relationship with God and obscure understanding of the true truth. By keeping the heart free from falsehood, one can preserve their recognition of the Truth and remain steadfast in their faith.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on One of the Characteristics of a Good Person

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on one of the characteristics of a good person, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

نِعْمَ الْقَوْمِ السُّؤَّالِ , يَحْمِلُوْنَ زَادَنَا إِلَى الْآخِرَةِ[18]

The best people are those who frequently seek knowledge and other forms of goodness. They provide provisions for us in the Hereafter.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that the best people are those who constantly seek knowledge and goodness, and frequently inquire about beneficial matters. Such individuals are valued because, by pursuing knowledge and goodness, they not only improve themselves but also benefit others. They gather knowledge and wisdom that serve as valuable provisions for the afterlife. People who strive to understand and practice knowledge and goodness help guide themselves and others toward a better life and a closer relationship with Allah. This is one of the best Sufi quotes of Ibrahim bin Adham on life that we need to understand.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on Poverty

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on poverty, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

مَا بَالُنَا نَشْكُو فَقْرَنَا لِمِثْلَنَا وَلَا نَطْلُبُ كَشْفَهُ مِنْ رَبِّنَا[19]

How can we complain about our poverty to creatures like ourselves and not ask our Lord to remove it?

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham highlights the illogical nature of complaining about difficulties, such as poverty, to fellow human beings—who are themselves creations of Allah—rather than directly appealing to the Almighty God. The paragraph emphasizes that all creatures, including humans, have limitations and weaknesses. Therefore, relying on them to address fundamental issues like poverty is an unwise action. Instead, we should direct our supplications to Allah, the Creator, who has the ultimate power to change our circumstances.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Dangers of Desires and Affections for Worldly Matters

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the dangers of desires and affections for worldly matters, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

قِلَّةُ الْحِرْصِ وَالطَّمْعِ تُوْرِثُ الصِّدْقَ وَالْوَرَعَ , وَكَثْرَةُ الْحِرْصِ وَالطَّمْعِ تُوْرِثُ الْهَمَّ وَالْجَزَعَ[20]

A little desire and affection can lead to truth and piety (wirai). Much desire and affection can lead to distress and unrest.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that having few desires and affections for worldly matters can lead a person to truth and piety (wirai). When someone is not bound by numerous desires or passions, they are more likely to focus on what is true and spiritual, ultimately enhancing their level of piety. Conversely, having many desires and affections can lead to distress and unrest. Numerous desires often result in disappointment because not all desires can be fulfilled, and even when fulfilled, they tend to create worry and dissatisfaction.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Causes of Unanswered Prayers

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the causes of unanswered prayers, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

وَقِيْلَ لَهُ : إِنَّا نَدْعُوْ فَلَا نُجَابُ , وَاللهُ سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى يَقُوْلُ : ادْعُوْانِي أَسْتَجِبْ لَكُمْ . فَقَال : مَاتَتْ قُلُوْبُكُمْ فِى عَشْرَةِ أَشْيَاءَ : عَرَفْتُمُ اللهَ فَلَمْ تُؤَدُّوْا حَقَّهُ , وَقَرَأْتُمْ كِتَابَهُ فَلَمْ تَعْمَلُوْا بِهِ , وَزَعَمْتُمْ مَحَبَّةَ رَسُوْلِهِ وَتَرَكْتُمْ سُنَّتَهُ , وَادَّعَيْتُمْ عَدَاوَةَ الشَّيْطَانِ وَرَافَقْتُمُوْاهُ , وَقُلْتُمْ : نُحِبُّ الْجَنَّةَ وَلَم تَعْمَلُوْا لَهَا , وَقُلْتُمْ نَخَافُ النَّارَ وَوَهَبْتُمْ أَنْفُسَكُمْ لَهَا , وَقُلْتُمْ : الْمَوْتُ حَقٌّ وَلَمْ تَسْتَعِدُّوْا لَهُ , وَاشْتَغَلْتُمْ بِعُيُوْبِ إِخْوَانِكُمْ وَنَبَذْتُمْ عُيُوْبَكُمْ , وَأَكَلْتُمْ نِعْمَةَ رَبِّكُمْ وَلَمْ تَشْكُرُوْهَا , وَدَفَنْتُمْ مَوْتَاكُمْ وَلَمْ تَعْتَبِرُوْا , فَأَنَّى يُسْتَجَابُ لَكُمْ ؟[21]

He was told (Ibrahim bin Adham), "Indeed, we pray but our prayers are not answered. Yet Allah, the Almighty, says, 'Call upon Me, and I will respond.' He then replied, 'Your hearts have died due to ten things. You know Allah but do not fulfill His rights. You read His Book but do not practice it. You claim to love His Messenger but abandon his Sunnah. You profess to oppose Satan but are always with him. You say, "I love Paradise," but do not act to attain it. You say, "We fear Hell," but you dedicate yourselves to it. You say, "Death is true," but do not prepare for it. You are preoccupied with the faults of your brothers but ignore your own faults. You enjoy the blessings of your Lord but do not give thanks. You bury your dead but do not take lessons from it. So, how can your prayers be answered?"

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains ten reasons why Allah might not immediately answer a person’s prayers. The ten reasons are as follows:

  1. Not fulfilling the rights of Allah.
  2. Not practicing the Qur'an.
  3. Abandoning the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.
  4. Acting like Satan.
  5. Not working towards attaining Paradise.
  6. Behaving in a way that leads to Hell.
  7. Not preparing for death.
  8. Focusing on the faults of others.
  9. Not giving thanks for the blessings of Allah.
  10. Not learning from death.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on How to Become a Friend of Allah

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on how to become a friend of Allah, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

إِنْ أَحْبَبْتَ أَنْ تَكُوْنَ وَلِيًّا فَلَا تَرْغَبْ فِى شَيْئٍ مِنَ الدَّارَيْنِ , وَفَرِّغْ نَفْسَكَ لِلَّهِ , وَأَقْبِلْ عَلَيْهِ يُقْبِلْ عَلَيْكَ[22]

If you want to become a friend of Allah, then do not love anything from the two worlds. Empty your soul only for Allah. Turn to Him, and He will guide you.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that to become a wali (friend of Allah), one must avoid loving worldly or material things from both lives: the worldly life and the hereafter. This means that one should let go of attachment and desire for anything temporary and non-eternal. By emptying the soul of all worldly love and focusing solely on Allah, a person can achieve closeness and blessings from God. Turning to and dedicating oneself entirely to Allah, without any desire or affection for anything else, will allow Allah to provide guidance and grace.

Sufi Quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the Sign of Light in the Heart

If you want to know Sufi quote of Ibrahim bin Adham on the sign of light in the heart, take a look at the Sufi quote below!

عَلَامَةُ نُوْرِ الْقَلْبِ أَنْ يَكُوْنَ أَكْثَرَ هَمِّ صَاحِبِهِ الْعِبَادَةُ , وَأَكْثَرَ كَلَامِهِ الثَّنَاءُ عَلَى اللهِ وَ حِكَايَاتُ الصَّالِحِيْنَ[23]

The sign of the light of the heart is that the majority of a person’s attention is on worship, and the majority of their speech is praise of Allah and stories of the righteous.

In this Sufi quote, Ibrahim bin Adham explains that the sign of the light of the heart, or a person's spiritual purity and brightness, is reflected in two main aspects: attention and speech. Firstly, a person with a luminous heart prioritizes worship in their life, indicating that worship is a primary focus and priority. Secondly, their speech is dominated by praise of Allah and discussions about the righteous. This shows that the individual is not only engaged in worship but also continually remembers Allah and values the examples of the righteous in their daily conversations. In other words, the light of the heart is manifested in consistent worship and speech that always leads towards goodness and piety, reflecting a person's closeness to Allah and the purity of their soul.

That concludes the discussion of some Sufi quotes of Ibrahim bin Adham in English and Arabic. Do you understand? If you have any questions, please feel free to ask!

I think that will be all for this article. I hope it has been beneficial. Amen.

See you again in the next article!

Source Citations

[1] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1 (Cairo: Maktabah ad-Dar al-Arabiyah li al-Kitab, 2009), 276.

[2] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 277.

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ibid.

[5] Ibid.

[6] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 278.

[7] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 279.

[8] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 280.

[9] Ibid.

[10] Ibid.

[11] Ibid.

[12] Ibid.

[13] Ibid.

[14] Ibid.

[15] Ibid.

[16] Ibid.

[17] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 281.

[18] Ibid.

[19] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 282.

[20] Ibid.

[21] Muhammad Abdurrauf al-Munawi, Al-Kawâkib ad-Durriyyah fî Tarâjumi as-Sâdah ash-Shufiyyah (الكَوَاكِبُ الدُّرِّيَّةُ فِى تَرَاجُمِ السَّادَةِ الصُّوْفِيَّةِ), vol. 1, 283.

[22] Ibid.

[23] Ibid.

Akhmad Syafiuddin
Akhmad Syafiuddin An expert in Islamic discourse and law, and a graduate of Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.

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