ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH (ذخائر الله)
Definition
ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH (ذخائر الله), literally translated as “Repositories of God,” is a Ṣūfī term that refers to a special class of believers endowed with immense spiritual attainments. These individuals are believed to serve as divine instruments for averting various national calamities, much like how stored reserves of grain prevent famines.
Etymology
- Arabic: ذخائر الله (ḏakhāʾiru-llāh)
- ḏakhāʾir (ذخائر): Plural form of ḏakhīra (ذخيرة), meaning “treasure” or “store.”
- Allāh (الله): The Islamic term for God.
- Literal Translation: “Treasures or Stores of God”
Turkish Translation
- Turkish: Allah’ın Hazineleri
Significance in Sufism
In Ṣūfī tradition, the term ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH is deeply significant. It highlights the belief that certain spiritually advanced individuals can act as conduits for divine grace and intervention. These individuals are considered central in maintaining spiritual and societal equilibrium. Their elevated spiritual state is regarded as a critical factor in mitigating adverse events or natural disasters that could affect a nation.
ḏakhāʾiru-llāh likened to preventive measures in the material world, emphasize the essential role of spirituality in the stewardship and well-being of communities. Just as grain stores safeguard against famine, these spiritual repositories are believed to shield societies from other forms of hardship.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Essentials of Islamic Mysticism” by A.J. Arberry - This book provides insight into various Ṣūfī concepts, including the notion of spiritual hierarchies.
- “Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam” by Carl W. Ernst - Offers a comprehensive overview of Ṣūfī practices and beliefs.
- “Spiritual Gems: The Mystical Qurʾān Commentary Ascribed to Jaʿfar al-Ṣādiq” translated by Farzana Hassan - Explores commentary that includes discussions on spiritually elevated individuals.
Takeaways
- ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH signifies a unique assembly of spiritually accomplished believers within Ṣūfī thought.
- These individuals are metaphorically compared to stores of grain, highlighting their importance in preventing collective calamities.
- The term underscores the belief in the integral role of spirituality in the welfare of a nation.
Conclusion
The concept of ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH enriches our understanding of Sufism by emphasizing the importance of spiritual masters in maintaining and protecting societal and national stability. Engaging with such terms broadens the appreciation of the nuanced ways Ṣūfī thought interweaves spiritual well-being with communal prosperity.
