Alone With the Beloved: the Words of ʿalī B. Al-Ḥusayn Inthe Ṣaḥīfa Sajjādiyya

CLOSING REMARKS

The aim of undertaking the study of this masterful piece of spiritual literature was to allow myself a chance of being introduced to the treasury of wisdom and gems of human beauty, which I found not only serve to enlighten minds but also instil confidence in our abilities. As people we are at times faced with situations in our lives where we stand defeated amidst trials and adversities, while on other occasions life may lose all sense of purpose and meaning. It is at such moments that we most require reassurance and encouragement together with an enduring sense of purpose to continue living meaningful lives.

The truest form of encouragement and purpose can only come from within us and through the beauty of our humanity. It is this very humanity that leads us to a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction, and it is that one reality which bonds us through its undiscriminating and undiscerning want to extend goodness.

It equally shares among all of us whether we belong to a faith scheme or otherwise.

Faith, religion and even non-religious systems despite their variety, inevitably aim at bringing about a better life by directing the individual and community through that which is most natural in the form of common human values.

I found in the Ṣaḥīfa Sajjādiyya an invitation to me as a reader and the supplicant to ponder over the depths of goodness inherent in the human being as it serves as a treatise of instruction in the development of the human self.

God, as the Object of these prayers and devotions portrays the most noble rank befitting humanity, and He serves as both a Means and the Ultimate goal for the culmination of human beauty. This beauty is then reflected in the attainment of personal contentment and genuine concern for others in a way allowing us to empathise and celebrate in their pains and joy through unconditional love.

The realisation of such level of being would represent the embodiment of the beauty of God and human completion. I hope the words of ʿAlī b. al-Ḥusayn someday will also touch the hearts of those who come across the Ṣaḥīfa and whereby naturally directing their growth and thereby fulfilling their own purpose.