An-Nujabāʾ (النجباء)
Definition
An-Nujabāʾ (النجباء) refers to the “The Excellent Ones” in Sufi terminology. According to Sufi beliefs, these are forty saintly characters who exist perpetually on Earth to support and guide humanity spiritually and morally.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The term An-Nujabāʾ is derived from the Arabic root word najīb (نجيب), which means ’excellent’ or ’noble'.
- Arabic: النجباء
- Turkish: Onların Mübarekleri or Yüce Kişiler
Concept in Sufism
In Sufism, An-Nujabāʾ holds a vital role within the spiritual hierarchy. These individuals are considered spiritual caretakers who undertake the mission of guiding the believers and maintaining righteousness in the world. They are believed to possess enormous spiritual insight and moral integrity, playing an essential role in the welfare of both the spiritual and temporal realms.
The Role of An-Nujabāʾ
- Guidance: They provide spiritual guidance to believers, helping them in their spiritual journeys.
- Protection: They are thought to protect the world from moral downfall through their prayers and righteous actions.
- Unseen Influence: Unlike widely recognized saints, their identity often remains hidden, and their influence is subtle but pervasive.
Relation to Other Sufi Concepts
An-Nujabāʾ is often discussed in conjunction with other spiritual ranks in Sufism, such as the Abdal (الابدال), a group of substituted saints who share similar responsibilities.
Scholarly References
The concept of An-Nujabāʾ is elucidated in classical Sufi literature, such as in the Kashshāf al-Iṣṭilāḥāt. This book, among others, offers insights into the various terminologies and their role within Sufi mysticism.
Further Studies
For those interested in delving deeper into the concept of An-Nujabāʾ and Sufi mysticism, the following books are recommended:
- “The Mystical Dimensions of Islam” by Annemarie Schimmel
- “Sufism: The Transformation of the Heart” by Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee
- “Sufi Orders in Islam” by J. Spencer Trimingham
Takeaways and Conclusion
An-Nujabāʾ (النجباء) represent a foundational concept in Sufi mysticism, emphasizing the importance of spiritual stewardship and the continuous presence of saintly characters dedicated to the well-being of humanity. Understanding An-Nujabāʾ provides valuable insights into the spiritual structures that underlie the practice of Sufism and the intricate ways it influences Islamic thought and life.
This concept showcases the depth of Islamic spiritual traditions and the ways in which unseen spiritual forces are believed to continuously work towards the moral and spiritual upliftment of the world. As such, An-Nujabāʾ reflect the profound and enduring belief in divine guardianship and the spontaneous workings of grace in the world.
