Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri

There is a purpose to this life. There is a beginning, and an end, and within it lies a light that has no beginning and no end. We are most fortunate to have been given the total package of truth, of haqq. We have come to this world in order to discover the qualities and attributes of the Creator of it, the Maintainer of it, the Sustainer of it; He who is within it, He who is before it, He who is after it. We have been bestowed with the ultimate purpose and meaning of our existence, along with the direction and way we must conduct ourselves to become in tune with the ever-present light of Allah. The Qur'an affrms that there cannot be two unless I am with you, there cannot be three unless I am the fourth (58:7); and I am closer to you than your jugular vein (50:16 50.16] And certainly We created man, and We know what his mind suggests to him, and We are nearer to him than his life-vein.). Where is it that His nūr (light), or its trace and pattern, is not already there? We are most fortunate to have embraced the divine light of the Prophet Muhammad (S). We are truly blessed to have trust and love for the Qur'an and to have profound admiration for the conduct and all that which has to do with the perfect being of Prophet Muhammad (S). Why is it then, that this miraculous guide, this revealed knowledge, has not been in every way adored, used and internalised? The answer is simple. You may have the recipe for a meal, but if you don't put the ingredients together to cook it and eat it, you will not get nourishment from it. Similarly, simply possessing knowledge without implementing it will not illuminate you mind. And at a higher level, it will not enlighten your heart. The Quran is a remarkable gift for us to use to change our attitude. The information contained within it has the power to lead to our transformation. The voice of truth from beyond time and space can be applied in our lives within time and space. In the following pages, we will dive into the Qur'an and its multi-layers of wisdom, knowledge and light. There are no ends to these horizons. As far as the Qur'an is concerned, it is the book of existence; it is the manual that any true believer in the One will find of immediate help in any situation and for any circumstance. One of the meanings of the Qur'an is that which gathers and has within it everything. The Qur'an has come with a language that surpasses the limitations of an ordinary terrestrial language. It contains terms that refer to the physical and material world, yet they also carry celestial connotations, evoking higher and subtler meanings

In these stories I would like to show the many different ways that people strive towards a better life that is more secure and enjoyable. Sometimes our lives may be in a downward spiral and it might feel as if everything is disintegrating on a path of entropy. Our journey on earth is a short period of being exposed to interaction with the outer world, a period of awareness and self-reflection, which often follows a path that touches both hope and despair. I hope these snippets of life will enable the reader to rise in awareness to the inner spirit, which is eternal and divine. Human consciousness is a special entity that interacts with whatever it focuses on, like the flame of a fire, unlike a passing wind that simply changes outer situations. Some of these stories show the effect of consciousness on an event. It is here that the narrator of the story participates in its content.

Note: This is a book of aphorismsThe word "Hikari" is often used in various contexts in Japanese culture, including literature, art, and everyday language, to convey different shades of meaning related to light and its symbolic significance. Reality emanates from the perpetual cosmic Oneness that radiates numerous patterns of lights which brings about life. As evolved human beings, any link that connects us to the origin, gives us comfort, ease and joy. We are privileged to have numerous links to this Oneness. Language can help us to connect and unify, so does a beautiful scene, so do all our major senses-through attraction and repulsion. The following short bursts of insights are steps towards being at one with the light within the heart. All our ambitions and drives ultimately lead us to the origin and creation of cosmic Oneness. Truth is one. Reality is one. Boundless eternal life is one, emanating from the One. From the introduction by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri

NOTE: THIS PAPERBACK VERSION INCLUDES ARABIC SCRIPT AND INTRODUCTIONS." There are numerous challenges and quests in human life. The most powerful drive however is to understand and connect with that that which is timeless and boundless. Our keen interest in the beginning of creation and its end is part of this quest. The Qur'an is the voice of truth which involves what is considered to be rational and shareable consciousness. The majesty of the Qur'an is that it addresses most of the human situation and day to day realities whilst connecting it with the Absolute and Boundless. At a normal, conditioned, human consciousness, the Qur'an can help to reduce suffering and discord, but a point is reached where spiritual insights go beyond the mind and into the realm of the soul where discernment and differentiations melt away into a zone where energy and matter are not distinguishable. For this reason, most classical scholars of Qur'an refer to this higher level as the Divine Domain and refrain from commenting or discussing it." From the Foreword by Shaykh Fadhlalla HaeriThe Irfani reflections and commentaries presented by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri in this book provide a bridge between rational understanding and spiritual insights of the Qur'an. Each page includes the Arabic script along with key verses selected for further meditation (identified by their verse numbers underlined). The introductions by the editor Shaykh Saadi Douglas Klotz and translator Dr Adnan Al Adnani add further to the context and language of the Qur'an. This production urges the reader to travel deeper and higher in their consciousness to achieve their ultimate destiny-awareness of awareness of the Ultimate Oneness of our existence. This edition, in softcover, contains a Foreword by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri, an introduction by the editor Shaykh Saadi Douglas Klotz, an introduction by the translator Dr Adnan Al Adnani. The text contains the arabic of the Qur'an, a translation alongside it completed by Dr Adnan Al Adnani, commentaries by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri relevant to each page, as well as two additional sets of commentaries on the side of each page of the Qur'an, one of which describes the meaning of the key verse/s per page (identified by their verse numbers underlined) and the other which presents a prescription.

NOTE: THIS HARDBACK VERSION INCLUDES ARABIC SCRIPT AND INTRODUCTIONS." There are numerous challenges and quests in human life. The most powerful drive however is to understand and connect with that that which is timeless and boundless. Our keen interest in the beginning of creation and its end is part of this quest. The Qur'an is the voice of truth which involves what is considered to be rational and shareable consciousness. The majesty of the Qur'an is that it addresses most of the human situation and day to day realities whilst connecting it with the Absolute and Boundless. At a normal, conditioned, human consciousness, the Qur'an can help to reduce suffering and discord, but a point is reached where spiritual insights go beyond the mind and into the realm of the soul where discernment and differentiations melt away into a zone where energy and matter are not distinguishable. For this reason, most classical scholars of Qur'an refer to this higher level as the Divine Domain and refrain from commenting or discussing it." From the Foreword by Shaykh Fadhlalla HaeriThe Irfani reflections and commentaries presented by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri in this book provide a bridge between rational understanding and spiritual insights of the Qur'an. Each page includes the Arabic script along with key verses selected for further meditation (identified by their verse numbers underlined). The introductions by the editor Shaykh Saadi Douglas Klotz and translator Dr Adnan Al Adnani add further to the context and language of the Qur'an. This production urges the reader to travel deeper and higher in their consciousness to achieve their ultimate destiny-awareness of awareness of the Ultimate Oneness of our existence. This edition, in hardcover, includes a Foreword by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri, an introduction by the editor Shaykh Saadi Douglas Klotz, an introduction by the translator Dr Adnan Al Adnani. The text contains the arabic of the Qur'an, a translation alongside it completed by Dr Adnan Al Adnani, commentaries by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri relevant to each page, as well as two additional sets of commentaries on the side of each page of the Qur'an, one of which describes the meaning of the key verse/s per page (identified by their verse numbers underlined) and the other which presents a prescription.

"The Qur'an addresses most issues that concern human beings with constant references to the ultimate Reality and Truth. Considerable emphasis is given to relative time and human concerns on earth and the connection between the inseparability of the relative and the Absolute. The Qur'an emphasises that anything that exists or happens is due to God and equally emphasises human responsibility to act and live with clear accountability to God. The main difference between other traditions and religions at the time of the Prophet Muhammad is the perplexing notion that, in truth, there is only God, and all else are shadows in this Light. To understand the Qur'an and use it as a template, this brief background is necessary. This booklet presents extracts from talks I have given on the subject, arranged in six themes: Context and Action, the Self, Understanding, Transformation, Awakening and lastly Oneness and Balance." From the introduction by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri

A modern-day sage's indispensable insights into how to access true fulfilment At the heart of life's quest lies the mystery of existence. 'Fulfilment Now' presents the key elements needed to fulfil this quest. Through questions put to him by students, Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri succinctly lays bare a terrain that shows how two zones of consciousness prevail. This book touches on the evolutionary rise of consciousness, time and timelessness, and the eternal moment. Fuelled by the major inherent drives of consciousness, connection and continuity, humanity is driven to seek contentment and to excel along the journey towards 'supreme consciousness'. Guides have always been an inherent part of the journey to fulfilment, but Shaykh Haeri sees in the last few decades significant shifts away from localized relationships of master-student, wherein the mirroring needed by the seeker is no longer one of exclusivity but greater self-awareness and self-accountability.'Fulfilment Now' offers fresh insight into the nature of what is sought of a teacher, the subconscious, the balance between free will and predestination, what is meant by presence, death as a natural continuation, the obsession with life, relationality, and self-governance. The central thread is that it is connecting with higher consciousness that brings about fulfilment; with that calibration, suffering is reduced. Realizing this existence is a transitory stage of being between the infinite unknown and the finite known, between self and soul, leads to a fulfilled life. 'Fulfilment Now' highlights that there is no distance between the seeker and the Giver.

101 Helpful Illusions highlights natural veils waiting to be transcended by disciplined courage, wisdom and insight. Everything in creation has a purpose relevant to a specific situation that could lead the seeker of higher knowledge towards the ultimate spiritual truth of oneness. Thus our egotistic vices can indeed be stepping stones towards acting selflessly, spontaneously, and cheerfully with heightened awareness and good expectations in all situations. Indeed, all our mistakes can lead us towards the desired spiritual awakening -- the ultimate purpose in life. Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri shares with the reader that whatever we consider confusing illusions or paradoxes are actually conducive to and helpful along the path of awakening and soul discovery. When consciousness transcends duality and recognizes all-encompassing unity, then all paradoxes and illusions are resolved.

These talks were delivered over a series of Friday prayer gatherings at the Rasooli Center, Centurion, south of Pretoria, South Africa. Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri boldly addresses many topics that influence Muslims at the core of what it means to be a Muslim in today's global village and how to be transformed by living the Deen of Islam truly. With his finger on the pulse of our times, Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri highlights the critical issues with a sense of urgency, clarity of insight and guidance grounded in the Qur'an and Prophetic way. These challenges ultimately revolve around the core science of self-knowledge and awakening to the inner potential within us to live in harmony with God's decree of unity, justice and mercy.

In Happiness in Life and After Death -- An Islamic Sufi View, Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri provides a lucid and inspiring account of life, death and the hereafter, according to an Islamic Sufi perspective. The book opens with a wide-ranging sweep of death and dying as viewed in other cultures and religions -- from ancient Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Zoroastrian sources through to Judaism and Christianity. Based on the Qur'an and Prophetic message, this book offers a splendid collection of revelations and spiritual teachings that map a basic path towards a wholesome way of living without forgetting death. There is both physical and spiritual death, and death in both instances is seen as a natural bridge from the suffering and delusions of this life to a unifying and clear abode. As the reader is led from birth of the ephemeral self on earth through an unfolding progression towards higher consciousness and awakening to the eternal soul within, constant awareness of one's intimate dual nature takes away much of the fear of death and makes it seem like a familiar companion.

This book is written for anyone interested in the basic message and purpose of the Qur'an and its historical and religious framework. It highlights the important issues and topics of the Qur'an. The Qur'an connects life on earth to its sacred essence and heavenly source which encompasses whatever there is in the universe." Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri's The Essential Message of the Qur'an invites the Western reader into a deep understanding of this important sacred text. As much misunderstood as the Qur'an is today, particularly in the popular media, so much more so does its wisdom and spiritual message offer insight on our present challenges. " Dr. Neil Douglas-Klotz"A treasure trove for every person eager to find balance, hope and, yes, light in the shadows of this world. It is a gift for every reader who is not content with the standard or one-dimensional view of Islam as another world religion, and the Qur'an as a closed book with no connection or message for those outside the orb of Arabia or Islam. Its message is as wise as it is welcome." Dr. Bruce B. Lawrence"Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri has written one of the most accessible, readable and informative introductions to the Qur'an. The Essential Message of the Qur'an carries the imprint of a person who has spent a lifetime immersed in the study of the Qur'an, and can rightly be considered as one of its authoritative modern interpreters." Dr. Ali Allawi

In this autobiography the atmosphere of an Iraq in transition is brought to life with all its sights, sounds and political realities. But the author's personal concern and quest has always been spiritual rather than political, so the national and cultural upheavals are used as a backdrop for his own journey of self discovery and search for truth. For everyone interested in the events that created modern Iraq, in how Muslims view their own history and in how the message of Islam meets both individual needs and that of the world today, this is a timely and thought-provoking book. A new dawn has also appeared in spiritual travelogues with the publication of Son of Karbala. It deserves a place among the great spiritual odysseys of our time, right next to Gurdjieff's Meetings with Remarkable Men, which is at once resembles and exceeds in its honesty and clarity.-- Professor Bruce B. Lawrence, Duke University, Durham NC

"Forty Verses on Reality by Sri Ramana Maharshi is a pithy and aphoristic short sacred work. This little book is full of the most profound revelations of Self-Knowledge. An essential text for all interested in Nonduality and the Maharshi s teachings. Truth is eternal and it is not subject to certain people, place, or time. The utterances of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi carry with them the potency of what is real. These interpretations use a more modern English language and understanding than the original ones under which the publication of 1935 took place. This rendering shows the universality of original teachings. It shows what is truly inspired by truth itself is true anytime, anywhere, any place. This version is particularly important as it interprets the original Ulladu Narpadu in the contemporary idiom. Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri himself a realised master relates the teachings of the Sri Ramana Maharshi in a respectful and loving manner. This little book is dedicated in admiration to the great teacher."