MUḤĀẒARAH (محاضرة)
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: محاضرة (Muḥāẓarah)
- Etymology: The term “MUḤĀẒARAH” comes from the Arabic root ḥ-ḍ-r, which means “to be present” or “to attend.”
Definition
MUḤĀẒARAH refers to the concept of “being present,” a term used particularly within Sufi tradition. It denotes the spiritual exercise where the soul is brought into the presence of God during the practice of Ẕikr (remembrance of God) to absorb spiritual blessings that arise from contemplating the ninety-nine attributes and titles of God.
Context of Use in Sufism
In Sufism, the practice of MUḤĀẒARAH is crucial for the spiritual development of practitioners. It involves deep meditation and the practice of Ẕikr, where one focuses on the divine attributes of God. This exercise helps Muslims to enhance their spiritual awareness and closeness to the Divine.
- Spiritual Practice: The aim is to create an intimate bond with God and attain a state of continuous contemplation and presence (Ẕikr), which can lead to spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.
- Contemplation: The ninety-nine attributes of God, also known as Asma’ul Husna, form the focus of this contemplation, providing depth to the practitioner’s understanding and experience of God’s infinite qualities.
Takeaways and Conclusion
MUḤĀẒARAH is a profound Sufi practice that underscores the importance of perpetual divine mindfulness and presence in a believer’s life. By continually engaging in this form of spiritual exercise, Muslims aim to cultivate a deep, ongoing relationship with God, drawing closer to His essence.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Heart of Islamic Philosophy: The Quest for Self-Knowledge in the Teachings of Afdal al-Din Kashani” by William C. Chittick
- “Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam” by Carl W. Ernst
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn al-Arabi’s Metaphysics of Imagination” by William C. Chittick
Tags
- Sufism
- Zikr
- Spirituality
- Islamic Mysticism
Conclusion
MUḤĀẒARAH holds a distinguished place in Sufi practices as it bridges the human experience with divine reality through continuous presence and contemplation. Understanding this term provides insight into the depths of Islamic spirituality and the believer’s journey towards internalizing the essence of God’s attributes.
