Living Wisdom

For centuries, wayfarers on the path to God have found their sustenance in Ibn ‘Ata’illah al-Sakandari’s Spiritual Maxims (Hikam), a collection of profound sayings outlining the path of spiritual development. In this series, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani works to make these insights accessible for a general audience. He gives a simplified explanation of the text alongside practical examples of how we can draw from their wisdom in our day-to-day practice of Islam—making these lessons a useful accompaniment for Muslims looking to improve their connection with their Maker.


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Skill Level: Beginner
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About the text:

Ibn ‘Ata‘illah’s Spiritual Maxims (Hikam) is a collection of short words of wisdom written by a famed 14th-century master of the path of drawing closer to Allah Most High. The author’s teacher and mentor, Abu l-‘Abbas al-Mursi, is said to have described this work as being a summary of Ghazali’s Revival of the Religious Sciences with additions to it. In the centuries since its composition, it has served as an unfailing guide for seekers across the Muslim world seeking to embark on the journey of self-improvement. It has also been the subject of several scholarly commentaries.
About the Author:

Ahmad ibn Muhammad Ibn Ata‘Illah al-Iskandari was a leading imam of Islamic spirituality and scholar of Arabic grammar, hadith, Quranic exegesis, fundamentals of law and faith, and Islamic law. Originally from Alexandria, he moved to Cairo, where he attracted a large following and gave public lectures that were well attended. When he spoke at al-Azhar Mosque, he would combine the words of the scholars of Islamic spirituality with hadiths, stories of the early Muslims, and scholarly topics. The author of many important works on the path to Allah which remain invaluable resources for seekers to this day, his true legacy lies in the spiritual path he served and the disciples he left to further it, their hearts opened to the knowledge of Allah Most High through his instruction. He died in Cairo in 709/1309.
Who is this course for:

This is a general-level course for anyone looking for insights on how to improve their connection with their Creator.
Learning outcomes:

  • Learn about common pitfalls in religious practice and how to avoid them.
  • Gain insight on how the imams of Islamic spirituality approached the topic.
  • Reflect on practical examples on how to apply these insights in our day-to-day lives.