[TeapseTic]

Shaykh Uthman Dan Fuduye’ in his Usuul ‘l-Wilaayat defines the science of tasawwuf and then cites the opinions of the teachers and guides of the path of tasawwuf:

Realize my brother that the foundations for becoming a protected friend of Allah and the preconditions are built upon:

[1] adherence to the Book and the Sunna;
[2] avoiding corrupt passions and heretical innovation (bid`a);
[3] elevating the sanctity of the shaykhs;
[4] examining destructive character;
[5] persistence in the litanies; and
[6] avoiding compromise.

Abu ‘l-Qaasim al-Junayd, may Allah be pleased with him said,

‘All the spiritual paths (at-turuq) have been closed except following the footprints of the Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace
‘Our foundations (for tasawwuf) are six:

[1] the Book of Allah and the sunna of His Messenger;
[2] eating what is halaal;
[3] refraining from insults;
[4] avoiding sins;
[5] repentance; and
[6] discharging obligations.’

Abu Hamza al-Baghdadi, may Allah be pleased with him said:

‘Whoever knows the path of the Lord of Truth, There is no guide to the path of Allah ta`ala (tareeq Allah) except by following the Beloved, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Whoever adjoins himself to the conduct of the sunna, Allah will illuminate his heart with the lights of inward knowledge. There is no spiritual station more noble than following the Beloved, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, in his commands, deeds, words and character.'

Shaykh as-Shayban was once asked, ‘What is tasawwuf?’ He responded:

“It is imitation and following the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace’.”