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AlGhazalisIhya-Book_of_Discipline_of_the_Soul_Character_Sick, page : 17
may do so.
Firstly, he should sit before a Shaykh who has insight into these faults and
hidden weaknesses, and put him in authority over his soul, and follow the
instructions he gives in connection with his struggle therewith, as is the place of
the aspirant with his Shaykh; this latter will ascertain these faults, and explain to
him the method by, which they should be treated. However such a man is hardly
to be found in this age.
Secondly, he may seek out a rue, perceptive and religious friend, and appoint
him to be the overseer of his soul, so that he notes his circumstances and deeds,
and brings to his attention the inner and external faults, acts and traits, which he
finds dislikable in him. This was the practice of the wise men and great leaders of
the Faith: Umar used to say: “May Allah grant His mercy to a man who shows
me my faults.”
It was for this reason that Daud al‟Ta‟I renounced all human company, and said,
when asked why: “What can I do with people who hide my faults from me?” It
Firstly, he should sit before a Shaykh who has insight into these faults and
hidden weaknesses, and put him in authority over his soul, and follow the
instructions he gives in connection with his struggle therewith, as is the place of
the aspirant with his Shaykh; this latter will ascertain these faults, and explain to
him the method by, which they should be treated. However such a man is hardly
to be found in this age.
Secondly, he may seek out a rue, perceptive and religious friend, and appoint
him to be the overseer of his soul, so that he notes his circumstances and deeds,
and brings to his attention the inner and external faults, acts and traits, which he
finds dislikable in him. This was the practice of the wise men and great leaders of
the Faith: Umar used to say: “May Allah grant His mercy to a man who shows
me my faults.”
It was for this reason that Daud al‟Ta‟I renounced all human company, and said,
when asked why: “What can I do with people who hide my faults from me?” It