Source Text
We see so much beauty. For example, we see that in the heat of the battle, when Imam Husayn (a) had already lost some of his friends and companions, when his daughter called him, Imam Husayn (a) did not say “Not, now! Can’t you see we are in the middle of a battle?” No. He dismounted his horse and gently said: “What is it, sweetheart? What is it, the light of my eye?”
Where does this calmness come from?
What was his spiritual state like? What was his relationship with God like? What was it that allowed him to remain so calm, so hopeful, and so strong?
What is a Du‘a? A du‘a is not something you simply read or recite. Rather, a du‘a is a real connection that takes place between a soul and its Creator, between a being trapped in time and place, and the source of all creation. Du‘a is like a breeze that comes from eternity and saves us from this feeling of being a stranger trapped in a world full of pain. This is the true meaning of du‘a.
For example, ‘I hope I get this job.’ Rather, it seems the main purpose of du‘a is to establish the connection between the soul and its Creator.
As a result of this inner change, we have changed from a person who is looking for someone to calm them, to give them love, and to take care of them, to a person who is overflowing with unconditional peace and love and wants to be with someone to share this love with them.
What role do we play in this world? Imam Husayn (a) answers this beautifully in the du‘a when he describes God as: جازِى كُلِّ صانِعٍ The one who repays every creator.
Imam Husayn (a) reminds us that God is always there for us. He is always there to listen to us and help, often aiding us and warding off our problems without us even knowing.
Another way God speaks to us is through some event that suddenly makes you want to talk to Him, or thank Him. This, of course, is all for our own benefit. In chapter five, we will discuss how Shukr is for our own benefit. Sometimes, God may cause something to occur in your life so that you remember Him.
Religion is only useful when you realize it is for yourself. It is for your benefit, and if prayer or any other part of religion feels like something you are doing for God’s benefit, then it is wrong. Imam Husayn (a) is explaining that religion is going to be beneficial only when you truly know that it is for you.
AI Summary
Learning Spirituality From Imam Husayn by Javad Shomali presents key insights from the contemplative tradition. The 10 passages above capture the essential teachings.
Core Themes:
- [To be expanded]
Key Passages: Highlights 1, 3, and 10 are particularly representative.
This entry was generated from Readwise highlights. Expand with additional context as appropriate.