Friday, November 25, 2016
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Japanese composer.
Shigeru Umebayashi (梅林茂 Once the leader of Japan's new wave rock band EX, composer Shigeru Umebayashi began scoring films in 1985 when the band broke up. He has more than 40 Japanese and Chinese films to his credit and is perhaps best known in the Westfor "Yumeji's Theme" (originally from Seijun Suzuki's Yumeji), included in director Wong Kar-wai's In the Mood for Love (2000). Umebayashi scored most of Wong Kar-wai's follow-up film, 2046 (2004), and House of Flying Daggers. He is also the composer for the music of the first Serbian spectacle, Charleston & Vendetta. Umebayashi received the special "Tomislav Pinter Award" atAvvantura Film Festival Zadar (Croatia) in 2013 during his stay as member of the official Jury.
taro umebayashi
Born on November 14th, 1980. Grew up in Tokyo.
Composer, arranger, artist = milk
Composer, arranger, artist = milk
Started playing piano in elementary school.
After graduating high school, he entered an era of being influenced by new wave, Serge Gainsbourg, Jon Brion and so on.
He finally learned composition and orchestralation in Tokyo University of the Arts Music Department, During his days in University, he signed to Rallye Label in August 2012 under the name milk.
He released his 1st album "greeting for the sleeping seeds", which featured various artists from the pop scene abroad such as Sally Seltmann (composer of Feist's "1,2,3,4") and Au Revoir Simone from New York, who all fell in love with taro umebayashi's music the moment they heard it.
After graduating high school, he entered an era of being influenced by new wave, Serge Gainsbourg, Jon Brion and so on.
He finally learned composition and orchestralation in Tokyo University of the Arts Music Department, During his days in University, he signed to Rallye Label in August 2012 under the name milk.
He released his 1st album "greeting for the sleeping seeds", which featured various artists from the pop scene abroad such as Sally Seltmann (composer of Feist's "1,2,3,4") and Au Revoir Simone from New York, who all fell in love with taro umebayashi's music the moment they heard it.
- ■ Ad Works (selection)
- ANA 、ANNIVERSAIRE、P＆G Ariel 、Google,UNIQLO,UNITED ARROWS Green Label Relaxing,Virgin Atlantic Airways, Japan Gateway N.A by NUDY AURA,TSUTAYA TV, Hulu, AxaDirectLife,Suntory Corporate CM,Otsuka Pharmaceutical SOYJOY, Sandisk,Panasonic,Bridgestone, etc.
The Partitur of Classical Music
Pachelbel Canon - PIANO SOLO (arr. Lyapunov) P. Barton, FEURICH 218
Sergei Lyapunov - Nocturne Op. 8 (audio + sheet music)
Dmitri Shostakovich - Dances of the Dolls (UNIVERSAL CHILDREN'S DAY TRIBUTE)
Chopin: The Complete Waltzes (Ott)
Bach + [Various]: Transcriptions (Weissenberg, Rösel, Bax, Grimaud, Glemser)
Chopin: Polonaises Op.44 and Op.53 (Anderszewski, Grosvenor, Kissin)
The Partitur of Classical Music
Pachelbel Canon - PIANO SOLO (arr. Lyapunov) P. Barton, FEURICH 218
Sergei Lyapunov - Nocturne Op. 8 (audio + sheet music)
Dmitri Shostakovich - Dances of the Dolls (UNIVERSAL CHILDREN'S DAY TRIBUTE)
Chopin: The Complete Waltzes (Ott)
Bach + [Various]: Transcriptions (Weissenberg, Rösel, Bax, Grimaud, Glemser)
yuri on ice song
Friday, August 12, 2016
Ahlus Shuffah, Sufi First Generation
Prophet
Muhammad said, "Often, the people who look disheveled, dusty, shabby
and neglected, if they swear by Allah, Allah Almighty will grant. If he said, 'O Allah, I seek your heaven,' Allah Almighty will grant
him Paradise dam does not provide any part of the world. "(HR. Muslim).Abu
Hurairah narrated that the Prophet said: "The inhabitants of heaven are
all (from a person dressed) crumpled, dusty, shabby and neglected. If
they apply for permission to the authorities denied permission, if
applying for a female is not accepted and if the talk is not heard. They need only conceived in his heart. If the light itself is divided (transmitted) to men on the Day of Resurrection, will be on them all. " (Reported by al-Bukhari and Ahmad).Companions Abu Huraira. said:
"I saw seventy people between ahlus shuffah, none of those who wear the
cloth that covered the upper part of their bodies, they only wear cloth
or gloves which they tied to the neck. Among the fabrics he uses it, there is a cover only half of the calves
and some are close to both matakaki, also was among those who hold the
cloth with his hands open, fearing saw her nakedness. "(Transmitted by
Al-Bukhari)"(Charity) to the needy who restricted (jihad) in the path of Allah. They can not be tried on earth. People who think that they do not know rich people, because they kept him from begging. You know them by their characteristics, they do not ask the man by force. Whatever of good ye charity, Allah surely knows it. " (Q.S. Al Baqarah: 273).The interpretation Qurthubi, that this verse was initially to mobilize
people to Ahlus Suffah charity, but later became common, namely charity
to all the needy (Tafseer Qurtubi Volume III, page 340).I
show hadiths and verses of the Qur'an at the beginning of this essay is
not to add confidence that we are all born since the beginning of the
Sufi understanding of Islam and the emergence of their first generation
sufi directly under the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad. Their lives are very simple very in tune with the life of the Prophet and his companions at the time. They prefer the religious interests of their own interests.Prophet as attentive to the Ahlus Shufah, even its own Fatimah peremuan He was told to give alms to the Ahlus Shuffah.In
addition to learning directly from the Prophet, they also serve as
soldiers ready to be sent anywhere in defense of religion. When the battle and the war raged with their alternates to lead the team into a formidable army of Islam. In times of peace they are often given the task of the Prophet
Muhammad as ambassadors to the people of the conquered lands of the
Muslims, and thus become preachers who deliver the message of Islam and
teach there.Most of them were martyred at Badr, among others; Safwan ibn Bayda, Zayd ibn Khattab, Sharim Fatigue ibn al-Asadi,
Khubayh Yasaf ibn Salim ibn Umair, and Haritha ibn Nu'man al-Ansari.Martyred at Uhud; Hanzalah al-Ghazil. Martyrs in the War Hudaybiyah; Jurhad ibn Abu Suraybah Khuwa'ad and al-Ghafari. Martyred in Khaibar; Tariq ibn Amr. Martyred at Tabuk; Abd Allah al-Bijadam Dzu. Martyred at Yamamah; Salim and Zayd ibn al-Khattab. Thus, they spend the evenings for worship and during the day to fight.Ahlus Shuffah education model then becomes an example for future
generations, scholars inheritors of the Prophet who taught the people
the physical and spiritual so that they are not only physical but also
spiritual.Sufi Last Generation.One of the things I'm grateful for in life is God giving me the opportunity to know and to feel with the people who live very simple lives in the home sober and eat very simple food nor even their more frequent fasting than not fast and they all guided by Master Murshid in seeking the pleasure of Allah.A very simple life under this basic human need not be forever a lifetime, but only takes place when they learn to Teachers, directly under the guidance of teachers in the given amount of time. There were learning 100 days, 1 year and some even 5 years.They've got this guidance later plunge into this life with berbagaimacam professions ranging from servants, traders, businessmen, teachers, Kiayi and of course they will never forget the guidance policies when they lived with Guru, the life of the Sufis very simple.They certainly do not live with shortages, and some have already become a successful entrepreneur but their hearts remained a Sufi dhikr diligent and obedient worship and always perform sunnah fasts. Their deeds are hidden from public view so as not to be seen. With this great education system so no one man can know which Sufism in this world unless they are Sufis, too.Those who have studied directly strict and discipline of teachers Murshid certainly will never forget all the knowledge that is given because it is not a transfer of knowledge into their minds directly into the spiritual but they will bring the world to the hereafter.Companions of the Prophet who lived as Ahlus Shufah within a certain time of their lives in the future also no longer exactly the same as their current lives are guided by him in terms of its simplicity. While Islam has developed, they have to be General, Governor and entrepreneurs in various countries. They certainly no longer just eat a handful of dried dates that make their stomachs during the summer as they are with him, but their hearts are not changed in the least permanent longing and love for Allah and His Messenger.Earthly life they are more comfortable to adjust to environmental conditions, but today they remain covered by the emission of light illuminate the hearts of all the men around him.Education model Ahlus Shufah passed by Guru Murshid to date is the best education in the world because that guided the physical / spiritual and the science presented of course comes from the Prophet Muhammad in the relay continued to connect not disconnected at all so any practice that is done accountable to Allah and His messenger.I wrote this article as part of the longing for my friends who once tutored by teachers in a very simple life, in trouble and distress, given knowledge may still be maintained and fixed heart always remember him at all times.I close this paper quoting hadiths which are often delivered by the Master, "Islam emerged in the foreign state, and will return the (foreign), as it appears in the foreign state. So it is fortunate strangers ". (HR. Muslim)
Sufism – The Way of Love
Dust off your wings
you escape
into the night’s sky
You have been caught
here in this mortal
coil
But now you hear
the true sounds
the drum
calling you back home
upwards onwards
to the beyond
You are lovesick
you are weary
you are homesick
you are sleepy
You have been
sucked in
and swallowed
up by the sweet smelling
rose gardens
But now your ears
are pricked
you are ready to hear
you are ready to come
back to me
You are ready like
a long lost lover
to come out of that
tavern of men
and to enter into
a field of new
ecstasies
You are ready
to be emptied
in order to be filled
with a new type
of brew
A celestial concoction
to awaken
mind body and soul
The arrow does
pierce thy heart
your soul gazes
upwards
Fly!
I am the ant
caught in the granary
I am so happy
to be hear
surrounded by this
feast of morsels
and morsels
of bread crumbs to eat
And so I try
with all my might
to lug out the biggest
fattest grain
which I can see
I find myself
within
Having turned my back
I know turn in
I set sail in a new
direction
Compass
Canvass
Skylight
In Sight
Light
Luminescence
Horizon
Within my mind
the birds
fly
and squawk
and I listen
with patience
to find my
dove
Do not worry
about me
Let me go
I’ve known all there
is to know
about hardship
about toil
I’ve been locked
and chained
I’ve
been suffocated
with soil
but they can’t
take away
what’s
in my heart
The Window
to my chest
cavern
opens wide
inside there
is Light!
Feathers strewn
left
and right
and below
me
Leading the way
to a thousand
kingdoms
of friends
and nobility
There are many
who are skillful
at setting traps
to catch
what their eye
desires
they’ve mapped out
the whole world
in turns
creating fleeting affections
loose connections
they feed off of
applause
and complimentation
they play games
without
going by the rules
they change
according to their mood
and if they see you
too
they will try to trap
Run Away!
Be free
Come
with me
He who knows
the Truth
put away your
Song and Dance
no need
to play the puppet
in the parades
let them pass
by
go in Silence
Like Children
they rub up against
each other
looking for a cheap
thrill
but this is not intimacy
Like Children
they play cowboys
they shoot their
guns
and pierce their knives
but in War
there is
no Joy
As the day
turns to eve
the night’s sky
brings rain
down
upon me
and jovial men
drunken slovenly
singing cajoling
I turn away
I go home
the pillow is calling
Each thing
in this world
contains its own
meaning
a mirror of
infinity
reflecting
back
in its own way
that which
is
has been
and always
will be
I lost my
camel
and everyone is quick
to give me directions
to find him
over the hot
and cool stones
of the desert sand
but it is
I who is lost
will they help me
find Him
You sought the
comforts
of comforting things
but the soul
yearns for more
for pain
in order to grow
unrestrained
Contained within
your body
you are
a world unto yourself
but remember
you too
are the World
In Love
all things find
their home in me
like a night’s sky
galaxy
aligned
I may be tiny
within the vast
infinity of world
that lay
in front of us
like beach sand
and Ocean mist
but my eyes
take it
all in
We feel connected
to those who
are kindred spirits
man and woman
we are one
Let your mind point
towards
the angels
not the stables
of stagnant
pause
The night’s sky
changes
unending
comets meteors
rising
but the Sun
stays fixed
in its transcendent
bliss
Calling to Me
Some desire
to dwell in the company
of men
others to escape
to the mountains
either way
let Love lead
you to where you need
to be
twigs and rivers
stones and trees
its all the same thing
He who does
not desire
to be other
than He
is Freedom
Knowing what is right
and true
pursue
Goodness
over-flowing like a Volcano
pent up too long
Find peace
in overcoming
dichotomy
like sugar
melt into that absynthan
water
The Water
The waves
that crash down around my little ship
at the end of the day
its just
foam
and mist
Learn to be your
own teacher
to drink of your own
milk
you chew food
now
go
out
into the world
and suck
Wisdom
from
the marrow of bone
The World
is more
than we see
more than we
believe
more than we
need
but everything
everything
we Seek
Listen
to the soft tunes
and inflections
intonations
in the sound
patterns of life flowing by
get caught up in
the river-streaming
meaning
why
Hearken your ear
forward
to hear
what’s inside
you saying
tonight
Through lightness
of being
comedy
we
can teach
through deadly seriousness
we preach
have feather-hands
go down
softly
to raise up
high
The world
is very real
keep your feet
planted
down
so your mind
can inhale clouds
The world
of man
is not as things
should be
always
where evil men
are placed
atop as kings
and princes
and emperors
presiding rule
Do not worry
every building
which collapses
is first
made
tall
Running around
we go in circles
trying to find the flame
that burns us
Time is a dagger
which plunges
into my heart
in the meantime
I strive
I struggle
to live with heart
We try our best
to get the most
out of ourselves and others
but sometimes
it just doesn’t happen
like we’d like
blood does not
come from a stone
but human might
Like a Magnet
I draw people to me
and also
do I repel
and so I cast
my spell
Tomorrow
you will find
the meaning
of tonight’s
doing
Come and Go
the Wind knows
you will find
out too
when you hear
subtle
Our lifetimes
are cruel
filled with pain
and suffering
be strong
in knowing
I seek the
Friend
who will be
there for
me
in the Dark Night of the Soul
I am a mirror
reflection
of
my self
I cannot hide
what I see
inside
of me
In those
moments when we lose
ourselves
we become maddened
and sad
its for a reason
keep looking
ahead
We suffer
when we
no longer
hear
the sound of our
own drum
Long for Mystery
for Mystery
is Life
Like a bird
we fly
fly
fly far away
from what doesn’t
seem right
at the time
welcoming in
the air beneath
our wings
to land in new
resting places
whatever may come
The gazelle
put in the pen
with the other animals
yearns for his home
for what
he knows
for what feeds his soul
with Love
rosehips
sweet grass
daffodil
What do we do
with the time
we’re given to inhabit
this fair land
is it what
we want
to be doing
what we need to be doing
what is our destiny?
The Old Man
walks around with
bitterness in his eyes
having not
found his true Companion
he wonders why
be careful with that knife
I am stuck
caught up in other people’s
fictions
I am thirsty
parched
looking for just one
glimpse
of answer
Remember
when the path of life
is weary
shake off the dust
you are
made of angel
wings
Let your drum Roar
Let your self
be heard
You are doing
Good
do not by shy
do not be timid
do not be afraid
to Learn
I was asleep
half
the time
walking through life
like a zombie-mind
but the grey
dove spoke his
song-sweet
and reminded
me
it’s time to eat
By seeing
that which we
have been
through
the scar tissue
we shall
mend
and overcome
We fight
We quarrel
like lovers do
but in those
holes
we fall
we find heaven
not hell
Sometimes
we
must
stay
up all night
in
order to
see the
Sun
When I struggle
and shrivel
in pain
I realize
I’m on the path
to something
and the smile
spreads like butter
on my
face again
Grief and Pain
Strife and Sorrow
these are our
tools and ointments
pointing us on
the path of right
and Enlightenment
know them as a Blessing
disguised as folly
Joy is like
the night’s sky
let is wrap
you up
and put you to bed
You are a Duck
the Ocean speaks
your name
Go from
whence you came
Though
you struggle
in flits and flutters
the water
knows
what nourishes
your breast
We are
the mirror
and its reflect
we are the water
and the jar
that pours it
Remind
your mind
of time
to
let go
and you will
be found
Having broke
free of
shackling
ivy
go like the fish
away from the
beach
go like the birds
to the sounds
sweet
go like the drum
to hand-beat
Embrace
the Freedom
which
has found you
You grasp
for the fruit
of a particular
tree
and miss the Orchard
of pomegranates
You sit and listen
to the laugh
of a woman
who scorns your nose
whose face is
leather
who is a lizard
she breathes hot
and heavy in your
face
when will you taste
what you were
truly meant
to eat?
Just when
it seems
everything
is falling down
around me
here comes another
brick upon my head
Life
Lesson
Lead the way
the bump will heal
I will be OK
Sometimes
we don’t see
what’s staring us in the
face
the answer
to our questions
given
before they are posed
poised we miss
that which
is given
Gave when Reception
was needed
My mind is dizzy
from sensory overload
like the wine
which flows
over the cup
into my hands
so is Life’s
Joy and Sorrow
with no end
We breathe
celestial air
with our angel
lungs
but pick away
at crumbs like
chickens
in stables
too
Man
Dual
Like a snail
we go slowly
slowly slow
but if we move
forward its in the right direction
our spade
might hit dirt
or sand
or even manure
but so long as we keep
digging
we go further
Without You
there
is no love
Without You
I am
a dove
lost at Sea
with no
land
to touch
Late at night
in my little rowboat
the stars
engulf me
Darkness
I struggle to stay afloat
My cap
has fallen
off my head
as I ran around
instead
of being still
but that’s OK
I can
pick it up
or make a new one
I dwell within
the
hearts of man
and women
and child
Through Connection
we begin to see
an image of
ever-transcendent
reality
Running giddy
The World will last
forever
but we are finite
Sad but True
However when
we Unite
we taste
eternity
if only for the moment
of delight
I am the flower
stem
moved by the wind
Pollinate me
divine being
keep me filled
with merriment
and Joy
and I will let my petals
fall
Be responsive
to what speaks
to your heart
and tell all evil men
I’m Sorry
but your disease
and death
is meant
for someone else
We are nurtured
by that
which gives
Mother!
Earth!
I’m sorry for our sins
Embrace me once
again
I am hear
Listen
I can
Today we find
ourselves with time
on our hands
do not take the books
of work
and learning
always
but let the musicality
of instrumentation
play
When all is confused
and men
choose to make
golden calves
to honor
false virtues
the falcon
is close at hand
to welcome you back
in
to come home
to your King
The Knowing
of the academician
facts this and that
overwhelms
confounds
like a beard entangled
there is another type
of Knowing
which they do not
that is of
Love Melting
pot
We have been given eyes
to see
Legs to run
and a Soul to yearn
with heart
of love
give and you shall receive
We are taught
and trained
to learn learn learn things
but there is another
kind
of learning
which comes from
trusting what You
already
Know
I have found
myself twisting
and turning
on the edge of
insanity
and that’s how
I knew
I was Becoming
The Soul
contains that which
our intellects
cannot hold
like a flame
which burns
stories untold
Do not carry around
doubt and regret
and hesitation
when preparing
to meet the King
The Philosopher
strives to think things
through to collect facts
to analyze data
to connect the lines
in strong arguments
but the Mystic
he just sits
and is
with the fire burning
When smoke is
seen
do not go rushing into that
smoke screen
but stay with
the candlelight
Our intelligence
can
only get us
so far
in this world of over-thought
torture
Embrace Silence
so that the Answer
can find you
Some things
are meant
to be discovered at a different
time or place
let yourself wander
in wonder
and awe
of Life
and one day you will meet
your true wife
Remove the baggage
which carries
you
into dark caves
so that you can Fly
to the sky
light as day
Be careful
not to delight
too much in tying
and untying knots
remember
the point
is to be free
to live as nature
intends you to be
not to get
caught up in
verbal
emotional or physical
gymnastics
Not everyone
is ready
prepared for the journey
it takes
to transcend the limits
of theology
and enter
god-wrestling
The know-it-all
strives
through intellect
to make a bed
to rest
to find a good
argument
to convince himself
he knows best
to be dead
serious
The lover
and mystic
do other-wise
striving to melt
into the unknown
to embrace it for
what it is
to find meaning
in the meaning
of drowning
in
All that was
solid
melted away
so I could
be super-fluidity
That discriminating
mind
you love so
let Go!
and be
transcendent being
In Love
we do Crazy things
we bask
in that which
can’t be explained
I went out into
the world searching
for answers
but then I came
to find myself
what I
was looking
for
at home
Do not load
your donkey-ass
with too much books
and knowledge
be free
lightweight
carry only what you need
so you can
be agile
like wind-flown tree-leaves
and pour forth
smooth
like tea
Those who seek
to commune
find rhythm and tune
where others
only hear
gnarls
and mash
you escape
into the night’s sky
You have been caught
here in this mortal
coil
But now you hear
the true sounds
the drum
calling you back home
upwards onwards
to the beyond
You are lovesick
you are weary
you are homesick
you are sleepy
You have been
sucked in
and swallowed
up by the sweet smelling
rose gardens
But now your ears
are pricked
you are ready to hear
you are ready to come
back to me
You are ready like
a long lost lover
to come out of that
tavern of men
and to enter into
a field of new
ecstasies
You are ready
to be emptied
in order to be filled
with a new type
of brew
A celestial concoction
to awaken
mind body and soul
The arrow does
pierce thy heart
your soul gazes
upwards
Fly!
I am the ant
caught in the granary
I am so happy
to be hear
surrounded by this
feast of morsels
and morsels
of bread crumbs to eat
And so I try
with all my might
to lug out the biggest
fattest grain
which I can see
I find myself
within
Having turned my back
I know turn in
I set sail in a new
direction
Compass
Canvass
Skylight
In Sight
Light
Luminescence
Horizon
Within my mind
the birds
fly
and squawk
and I listen
with patience
to find my
dove
Do not worry
about me
Let me go
I’ve known all there
is to know
about hardship
about toil
I’ve been locked
and chained
I’ve
been suffocated
with soil
but they can’t
take away
what’s
in my heart
The Window
to my chest
cavern
opens wide
inside there
is Light!
Feathers strewn
left
and right
and below
me
Leading the way
to a thousand
kingdoms
of friends
and nobility
There are many
who are skillful
at setting traps
to catch
what their eye
desires
they’ve mapped out
the whole world
in turns
creating fleeting affections
loose connections
they feed off of
applause
and complimentation
they play games
without
going by the rules
they change
according to their mood
and if they see you
too
they will try to trap
Run Away!
Be free
Come
with me
He who knows
the Truth
put away your
Song and Dance
no need
to play the puppet
in the parades
let them pass
by
go in Silence
Like Children
they rub up against
each other
looking for a cheap
thrill
but this is not intimacy
Like Children
they play cowboys
they shoot their
guns
and pierce their knives
but in War
there is
no Joy
As the day
turns to eve
the night’s sky
brings rain
down
upon me
and jovial men
drunken slovenly
singing cajoling
I turn away
I go home
the pillow is calling
Each thing
in this world
contains its own
meaning
a mirror of
infinity
reflecting
back
in its own way
that which
is
has been
and always
will be
I lost my
camel
and everyone is quick
to give me directions
to find him
over the hot
and cool stones
of the desert sand
but it is
I who is lost
will they help me
find Him
You sought the
comforts
of comforting things
but the soul
yearns for more
for pain
in order to grow
unrestrained
Contained within
your body
you are
a world unto yourself
but remember
you too
are the World
In Love
all things find
their home in me
like a night’s sky
galaxy
aligned
I may be tiny
within the vast
infinity of world
that lay
in front of us
like beach sand
and Ocean mist
but my eyes
take it
all in
We feel connected
to those who
are kindred spirits
man and woman
we are one
Let your mind point
towards
the angels
not the stables
of stagnant
pause
The night’s sky
changes
unending
comets meteors
rising
but the Sun
stays fixed
in its transcendent
bliss
Calling to Me
Some desire
to dwell in the company
of men
others to escape
to the mountains
either way
let Love lead
you to where you need
to be
twigs and rivers
stones and trees
its all the same thing
He who does
not desire
to be other
than He
is Freedom
Knowing what is right
and true
pursue
Goodness
over-flowing like a Volcano
pent up too long
Find peace
in overcoming
dichotomy
like sugar
melt into that absynthan
water
The Water
The waves
that crash down around my little ship
at the end of the day
its just
foam
and mist
Learn to be your
own teacher
to drink of your own
milk
you chew food
now
go
out
into the world
and suck
Wisdom
from
the marrow of bone
The World
is more
than we see
more than we
believe
more than we
need
but everything
everything
we Seek
Listen
to the soft tunes
and inflections
intonations
in the sound
patterns of life flowing by
get caught up in
the river-streaming
meaning
why
Hearken your ear
forward
to hear
what’s inside
you saying
tonight
Through lightness
of being
comedy
we
can teach
through deadly seriousness
we preach
have feather-hands
go down
softly
to raise up
high
The world
is very real
keep your feet
planted
down
so your mind
can inhale clouds
The world
of man
is not as things
should be
always
where evil men
are placed
atop as kings
and princes
and emperors
presiding rule
Do not worry
every building
which collapses
is first
made
tall
Running around
we go in circles
trying to find the flame
that burns us
Time is a dagger
which plunges
into my heart
in the meantime
I strive
I struggle
to live with heart
We try our best
to get the most
out of ourselves and others
but sometimes
it just doesn’t happen
like we’d like
blood does not
come from a stone
but human might
Like a Magnet
I draw people to me
and also
do I repel
and so I cast
my spell
Tomorrow
you will find
the meaning
of tonight’s
doing
Come and Go
the Wind knows
you will find
out too
when you hear
subtle
Our lifetimes
are cruel
filled with pain
and suffering
be strong
in knowing
I seek the
Friend
who will be
there for
me
in the Dark Night of the Soul
I am a mirror
reflection
of
my self
I cannot hide
what I see
inside
of me
In those
moments when we lose
ourselves
we become maddened
and sad
its for a reason
keep looking
ahead
We suffer
when we
no longer
hear
the sound of our
own drum
Long for Mystery
for Mystery
is Life
Like a bird
we fly
fly
fly far away
from what doesn’t
seem right
at the time
welcoming in
the air beneath
our wings
to land in new
resting places
whatever may come
The gazelle
put in the pen
with the other animals
yearns for his home
for what
he knows
for what feeds his soul
with Love
rosehips
sweet grass
daffodil
What do we do
with the time
we’re given to inhabit
this fair land
is it what
we want
to be doing
what we need to be doing
what is our destiny?
The Old Man
walks around with
bitterness in his eyes
having not
found his true Companion
he wonders why
be careful with that knife
I am stuck
caught up in other people’s
fictions
I am thirsty
parched
looking for just one
glimpse
of answer
Remember
when the path of life
is weary
shake off the dust
you are
made of angel
wings
Let your drum Roar
Let your self
be heard
You are doing
Good
do not by shy
do not be timid
do not be afraid
to Learn
I was asleep
half
the time
walking through life
like a zombie-mind
but the grey
dove spoke his
song-sweet
and reminded
me
it’s time to eat
By seeing
that which we
have been
through
the scar tissue
we shall
mend
and overcome
We fight
We quarrel
like lovers do
but in those
holes
we fall
we find heaven
not hell
Sometimes
we
must
stay
up all night
in
order to
see the
Sun
When I struggle
and shrivel
in pain
I realize
I’m on the path
to something
and the smile
spreads like butter
on my
face again
Grief and Pain
Strife and Sorrow
these are our
tools and ointments
pointing us on
the path of right
and Enlightenment
know them as a Blessing
disguised as folly
Joy is like
the night’s sky
let is wrap
you up
and put you to bed
You are a Duck
the Ocean speaks
your name
Go from
whence you came
Though
you struggle
in flits and flutters
the water
knows
what nourishes
your breast
We are
the mirror
and its reflect
we are the water
and the jar
that pours it
Remind
your mind
of time
to
let go
and you will
be found
Having broke
free of
shackling
ivy
go like the fish
away from the
beach
go like the birds
to the sounds
sweet
go like the drum
to hand-beat
Embrace
the Freedom
which
has found you
You grasp
for the fruit
of a particular
tree
and miss the Orchard
of pomegranates
You sit and listen
to the laugh
of a woman
who scorns your nose
whose face is
leather
who is a lizard
she breathes hot
and heavy in your
face
when will you taste
what you were
truly meant
to eat?
Just when
it seems
everything
is falling down
around me
here comes another
brick upon my head
Life
Lesson
Lead the way
the bump will heal
I will be OK
Sometimes
we don’t see
what’s staring us in the
face
the answer
to our questions
given
before they are posed
poised we miss
that which
is given
Gave when Reception
was needed
My mind is dizzy
from sensory overload
like the wine
which flows
over the cup
into my hands
so is Life’s
Joy and Sorrow
with no end
We breathe
celestial air
with our angel
lungs
but pick away
at crumbs like
chickens
in stables
too
Man
Dual
Like a snail
we go slowly
slowly slow
but if we move
forward its in the right direction
our spade
might hit dirt
or sand
or even manure
but so long as we keep
digging
we go further
Without You
there
is no love
Without You
I am
a dove
lost at Sea
with no
land
to touch
Late at night
in my little rowboat
the stars
engulf me
Darkness
I struggle to stay afloat
My cap
has fallen
off my head
as I ran around
instead
of being still
but that’s OK
I can
pick it up
or make a new one
I dwell within
the
hearts of man
and women
and child
Through Connection
we begin to see
an image of
ever-transcendent
reality
Running giddy
The World will last
forever
but we are finite
Sad but True
However when
we Unite
we taste
eternity
if only for the moment
of delight
I am the flower
stem
moved by the wind
Pollinate me
divine being
keep me filled
with merriment
and Joy
and I will let my petals
fall
Be responsive
to what speaks
to your heart
and tell all evil men
I’m Sorry
but your disease
and death
is meant
for someone else
We are nurtured
by that
which gives
Mother!
Earth!
I’m sorry for our sins
Embrace me once
again
I am hear
Listen
I can
Today we find
ourselves with time
on our hands
do not take the books
of work
and learning
always
but let the musicality
of instrumentation
play
When all is confused
and men
choose to make
golden calves
to honor
false virtues
the falcon
is close at hand
to welcome you back
in
to come home
to your King
The Knowing
of the academician
facts this and that
overwhelms
confounds
like a beard entangled
there is another type
of Knowing
which they do not
that is of
Love Melting
pot
We have been given eyes
to see
Legs to run
and a Soul to yearn
with heart
of love
give and you shall receive
We are taught
and trained
to learn learn learn things
but there is another
kind
of learning
which comes from
trusting what You
already
Know
I have found
myself twisting
and turning
on the edge of
insanity
and that’s how
I knew
I was Becoming
The Soul
contains that which
our intellects
cannot hold
like a flame
which burns
stories untold
Do not carry around
doubt and regret
and hesitation
when preparing
to meet the King
The Philosopher
strives to think things
through to collect facts
to analyze data
to connect the lines
in strong arguments
but the Mystic
he just sits
and is
with the fire burning
When smoke is
seen
do not go rushing into that
smoke screen
but stay with
the candlelight
Our intelligence
can
only get us
so far
in this world of over-thought
torture
Embrace Silence
so that the Answer
can find you
Some things
are meant
to be discovered at a different
time or place
let yourself wander
in wonder
and awe
of Life
and one day you will meet
your true wife
Remove the baggage
which carries
you
into dark caves
so that you can Fly
to the sky
light as day
Be careful
not to delight
too much in tying
and untying knots
remember
the point
is to be free
to live as nature
intends you to be
not to get
caught up in
verbal
emotional or physical
gymnastics
Not everyone
is ready
prepared for the journey
it takes
to transcend the limits
of theology
and enter
god-wrestling
The know-it-all
strives
through intellect
to make a bed
to rest
to find a good
argument
to convince himself
he knows best
to be dead
serious
The lover
and mystic
do other-wise
striving to melt
into the unknown
to embrace it for
what it is
to find meaning
in the meaning
of drowning
in
All that was
solid
melted away
so I could
be super-fluidity
That discriminating
mind
you love so
let Go!
and be
transcendent being
In Love
we do Crazy things
we bask
in that which
can’t be explained
I went out into
the world searching
for answers
but then I came
to find myself
what I
was looking
for
at home
Do not load
your donkey-ass
with too much books
and knowledge
be free
lightweight
carry only what you need
so you can
be agile
like wind-flown tree-leaves
and pour forth
smooth
like tea
Those who seek
to commune
find rhythm and tune
where others
only hear
gnarls
and mash
Part II
There are things
which go
beyond
the ability to Speak
When everyone else
is stumbling and bumbling
and drunk
I am here
Clear
Light
Vision
Back and forth
the mercury mind runs
off with its messages
but let yourself
bask in stillness
be light and free
and the answers
will come
of their own accordion
playing song
Be wary of those
seeking to fill your gills
with liquor spilt
Be careful whom
you trust
to invest with
Safeguard yourself
and your Love
be mad if you have
to
to overcome
Most men
have ulterior
motivation
they say Peace
but mean
let me get something
they say hello
but really
want to see
your money
parting
holding onions
they desire apples
to forever
replace
their dirty water
with mirk
and sludge
In the marketplace
many men
you will meet
selling their wares
let the angels
guide you
with care
Blessed is he
who has good true
friends
who are there
for him
who help him
in times of need
who bring joy
to his life
together they
form the walls
which keep up
the roof
so their heads
can remain
dry
Let two become
one and make
harmonious Love
like paper and pen
let the rushes
and reeds
go-between
each other
in seem
and produce
beautiful tapestry
The Friend
The Friend
come to me like
sweet desert
and wine
let us
together
welcome in the divine
The frog
and the Lizard
and the ants and the beatle bug
all come
together
in earthen-mud
land
to hum
In the turning
of myself
whirling through life
outpours hate
and anger and sadness
and strife
and love and happy
contentment and joy
and all other
matters
of wave-sin
We all go
back
to ash
but in this life-time
let us
have sweet friends
at our back
Having tasted
true Friendship
no longer do I want
the salt-lips
of courteous
intrusion
of snake-oil
salesman
We are a fish
traveling through
this World
which is
Ocean
find the right
school
and
swim
We are drawn
like Magnets
one to the other
to some
not
all though
Why?
Because
true Friends can
find each other
in the dark
We speak
squeak
mean different things
we do come and go
beings
good to know
good for nothing
just be
manifest
Creativity
its all Wonderful
go towards
that which
always gives-forth
We must all
rest
and relax
ourselves
We can’t go about
stressed
in this world
Steam-engines
must slow
down and stop too
Praise thee
my daily bread
for you give
me sustenance and life
so that I may
direct my heart
upwards
and
open
The Wooden Basket
floated atop the Sea
but then it became
filled with rain
and soon sank
below the surface
to be
completely engulfed
by the Ocean
even the fish
saw it
sink as they swam
past
just think when
its wood will become
sand
When you hear
the Call issued
forth from the lips
of those
who truly know
love it with all your soul
turn towards
it
and turn your back
from those
who cackle and caw
Everything lives in the
same life-world
whether dragon
snake or sheep
castle walls
or closed-in
entrapping
Kings and Queens
Jesters and folly
we all dance
sweet magic
that makes the world
spin on axis
Come to love
the scent of Truth
the fragrance
of Beauty
the sweet
sweet odor
of
Nothing
With words
we cannot
get all the way
but these signs
and symbols
and intonations
may
just may
point us in the
right direction
He who does not
believe in himself
goes to the top
of rooftops
and shouts
with eyes
shut
its so dark out
loud
There are those who
want to escape
because they
don’t like this world
but this world Is
whether
or not
we
believe in its
righteousness
Only through participation
and enrichment
does the vine
grow
and the grapes
blossom
so that the wine
can be made
with squashings and ferment
Oxidize yourself
with nutrient
and find the ecstasy
waiting for you
with time
spent
When a man
was seen speaking
to God as if he were
a person
a thing with shoes
and clothes
and milk-drinking
he was chastized
for humanizing the divine
but God came down and
said “Each unto his own
he speaks of shoes
and feet you of King
and throne”
do not separate those
who are truly
pious from their pathways
whether Muslim
or Jew
there is magic made
in following through
Things done
happen
better or worse
no matter
when
course of time
is going going
and
Let the Waves
roar let them
tumble Me
Let me be knocked
over
Let me drown
in their fury
Let me be overwhelmed
because Life is meant
to be lived
not just painted
on some landscape
Just as the baby
grows to be
a boy
then a man
then an old man
Wise Sage
so too you do
journey
with
every footstep made
My Spirit
came to me and
said
I will lift you up
don’t worry
you don’t
always
have
to be
weary
Sometimes
it takes the cry
of a child
to remind
us of
why we
are supposed
to act like adults
Let prayer
go through you
Let it serve
you as a time
of rest
Let it transform
you
Let it consecrate
you
Let it be
and be
with concept
of Yes
The Waves
are pushed
to shore
by a gentle
guiding hand
Roar-land
The Sun
illuminates the whole
world
creating playgrounds
for boys
and girls
and flowers
and squirrels
We are all beggars
until given
our daily dose
of vital life
All of the sciences
and mathematics
and theologians
and logicians
and religion
would be at peace
dissolve melt into
each
and retreat
if we would but
act with Love
only
Shhh
Relax
don’t try too much
too hard too fast
just Relax
and
everything
will pass by
Say Yes
Say No
be dumbfounded
and found
be silly-stupid
and resound
lie still
and
and
Circle run round
comes to its
own end
Be prepared
and it will come
Be thirsty
for Water-fountains
Make your throat
smooth and soft
not hoarse
and milk will
drip
We were meant
to cry
that is why
we can
Lament!
and let
She
who helps
give
all He can
There are some
who will come
to the aid
and rescue
of anyone
anything
anywhere
because help
is called for
they are the true Sages
the great men
who go like water
wherever
they need to be
they’ve taken the
cotton out of their
ears
so they can hear
weeping
Like birds
with one leg
tied together
they pull at each
other
so neither
can fly
The true Warrior
is tested
by the metal
of his heart
not spear or shield
he thrusts
himself forward
into
Oceans of Love
not
battlefield
Our insides
are jungle-like
animals
reside
Hogs and Snakes
and Butterflies
too
The winds of our breath
may kick up any
sand dust clouds
or man
be careful
Pursue
When the rest of the town
is sleeping
content with their days
work
stay awake
and let the moonlight
be your guide
to do the soul’s
hurt
Do not harm
your neighborhood
for it is yours
Do not harm
yourself
Do not twist your own
arm
or steal the bread’s scent
from under your
own nose
Be Strong
Man
The Good and
The Bad
are
together always
that’s just the Way
embrace them
like your robes
cloth in hand
for the lightest
step still
kicks up dust
and
The spokes
turn some for the
better and some
for the worse
be the air between
No longer striving
you can
no longer
love
Love
is a Struggle
like Jacob
who wrestled
with the Angel
above
Beyond right
and wrong
there is a field
I will meet you there.
This life
of human experience
is an experiment
in learning
to be hospitable
to all visitors
at our entrance
Don’t turn away
negative thoughts
immediately
they might
have something
too
to teach
Let yourself
go in sleep
do not feel guilty
your body
needs to be
warmly embraced
by pillows and blankets
before you can
be
ready
for the day’s tromping
Do not get hung
up on
Ones
and Twos and Threes
listen the sound
of sound waves
clapping
Do not seek pleasure
from outside
things
sex and wine
have it come from within
in intimacy
flowing
divine
You are
and you aren’t
or at least you won’t be
you will
but not in the same
way
differently
We see surface
with our eye-vision
but penetrate
deeper
to mind
and soul hidden
There are things
which go
beyond
the ability to Speak
When everyone else
is stumbling and bumbling
and drunk
I am here
Clear
Light
Vision
Back and forth
the mercury mind runs
off with its messages
but let yourself
bask in stillness
be light and free
and the answers
will come
of their own accordion
playing song
Be wary of those
seeking to fill your gills
with liquor spilt
Be careful whom
you trust
to invest with
Safeguard yourself
and your Love
be mad if you have
to
to overcome
Most men
have ulterior
motivation
they say Peace
but mean
let me get something
they say hello
but really
want to see
your money
parting
holding onions
they desire apples
to forever
replace
their dirty water
with mirk
and sludge
In the marketplace
many men
you will meet
selling their wares
let the angels
guide you
with care
Blessed is he
who has good true
friends
who are there
for him
who help him
in times of need
who bring joy
to his life
together they
form the walls
which keep up
the roof
so their heads
can remain
dry
Let two become
one and make
harmonious Love
like paper and pen
let the rushes
and reeds
go-between
each other
in seem
and produce
beautiful tapestry
The Friend
The Friend
come to me like
sweet desert
and wine
let us
together
welcome in the divine
The frog
and the Lizard
and the ants and the beatle bug
all come
together
in earthen-mud
land
to hum
In the turning
of myself
whirling through life
outpours hate
and anger and sadness
and strife
and love and happy
contentment and joy
and all other
matters
of wave-sin
We all go
back
to ash
but in this life-time
let us
have sweet friends
at our back
Having tasted
true Friendship
no longer do I want
the salt-lips
of courteous
intrusion
of snake-oil
salesman
We are a fish
traveling through
this World
which is
Ocean
find the right
school
and
swim
We are drawn
like Magnets
one to the other
to some
not
all though
Why?
Because
true Friends can
find each other
in the dark
We speak
squeak
mean different things
we do come and go
beings
good to know
good for nothing
just be
manifest
Creativity
its all Wonderful
go towards
that which
always gives-forth
We must all
rest
and relax
ourselves
We can’t go about
stressed
in this world
Steam-engines
must slow
down and stop too
Praise thee
my daily bread
for you give
me sustenance and life
so that I may
direct my heart
upwards
and
open
The Wooden Basket
floated atop the Sea
but then it became
filled with rain
and soon sank
below the surface
to be
completely engulfed
by the Ocean
even the fish
saw it
sink as they swam
past
just think when
its wood will become
sand
When you hear
the Call issued
forth from the lips
of those
who truly know
love it with all your soul
turn towards
it
and turn your back
from those
who cackle and caw
Everything lives in the
same life-world
whether dragon
snake or sheep
castle walls
or closed-in
entrapping
Kings and Queens
Jesters and folly
we all dance
sweet magic
that makes the world
spin on axis
Come to love
the scent of Truth
the fragrance
of Beauty
the sweet
sweet odor
of
Nothing
With words
we cannot
get all the way
but these signs
and symbols
and intonations
may
just may
point us in the
right direction
He who does not
believe in himself
goes to the top
of rooftops
and shouts
with eyes
shut
its so dark out
loud
There are those who
want to escape
because they
don’t like this world
but this world Is
whether
or not
we
believe in its
righteousness
Only through participation
and enrichment
does the vine
grow
and the grapes
blossom
so that the wine
can be made
with squashings and ferment
Oxidize yourself
with nutrient
and find the ecstasy
waiting for you
with time
spent
When a man
was seen speaking
to God as if he were
a person
a thing with shoes
and clothes
and milk-drinking
he was chastized
for humanizing the divine
but God came down and
said “Each unto his own
he speaks of shoes
and feet you of King
and throne”
do not separate those
who are truly
pious from their pathways
whether Muslim
or Jew
there is magic made
in following through
Things done
happen
better or worse
no matter
when
course of time
is going going
and
Let the Waves
roar let them
tumble Me
Let me be knocked
over
Let me drown
in their fury
Let me be overwhelmed
because Life is meant
to be lived
not just painted
on some landscape
Just as the baby
grows to be
a boy
then a man
then an old man
Wise Sage
so too you do
journey
with
every footstep made
My Spirit
came to me and
said
I will lift you up
don’t worry
you don’t
always
have
to be
weary
Sometimes
it takes the cry
of a child
to remind
us of
why we
are supposed
to act like adults
Let prayer
go through you
Let it serve
you as a time
of rest
Let it transform
you
Let it consecrate
you
Let it be
and be
with concept
of Yes
The Waves
are pushed
to shore
by a gentle
guiding hand
Roar-land
The Sun
illuminates the whole
world
creating playgrounds
for boys
and girls
and flowers
and squirrels
We are all beggars
until given
our daily dose
of vital life
All of the sciences
and mathematics
and theologians
and logicians
and religion
would be at peace
dissolve melt into
each
and retreat
if we would but
act with Love
only
Shhh
Relax
don’t try too much
too hard too fast
just Relax
and
everything
will pass by
Say Yes
Say No
be dumbfounded
and found
be silly-stupid
and resound
lie still
and
and
Circle run round
comes to its
own end
Be prepared
and it will come
Be thirsty
for Water-fountains
Make your throat
smooth and soft
not hoarse
and milk will
drip
We were meant
to cry
that is why
we can
Lament!
and let
She
who helps
give
all He can
There are some
who will come
to the aid
and rescue
of anyone
anything
anywhere
because help
is called for
they are the true Sages
the great men
who go like water
wherever
they need to be
they’ve taken the
cotton out of their
ears
so they can hear
weeping
Like birds
with one leg
tied together
they pull at each
other
so neither
can fly
The true Warrior
is tested
by the metal
of his heart
not spear or shield
he thrusts
himself forward
into
Oceans of Love
not
battlefield
Our insides
are jungle-like
animals
reside
Hogs and Snakes
and Butterflies
too
The winds of our breath
may kick up any
sand dust clouds
or man
be careful
Pursue
When the rest of the town
is sleeping
content with their days
work
stay awake
and let the moonlight
be your guide
to do the soul’s
hurt
Do not harm
your neighborhood
for it is yours
Do not harm
yourself
Do not twist your own
arm
or steal the bread’s scent
from under your
own nose
Be Strong
Man
The Good and
The Bad
are
together always
that’s just the Way
embrace them
like your robes
cloth in hand
for the lightest
step still
kicks up dust
and
The spokes
turn some for the
better and some
for the worse
be the air between
No longer striving
you can
no longer
love
Love
is a Struggle
like Jacob
who wrestled
with the Angel
above
Beyond right
and wrong
there is a field
I will meet you there.
This life
of human experience
is an experiment
in learning
to be hospitable
to all visitors
at our entrance
Don’t turn away
negative thoughts
immediately
they might
have something
too
to teach
Let yourself
go in sleep
do not feel guilty
your body
needs to be
warmly embraced
by pillows and blankets
before you can
be
ready
for the day’s tromping
Do not get hung
up on
Ones
and Twos and Threes
listen the sound
of sound waves
clapping
Do not seek pleasure
from outside
things
sex and wine
have it come from within
in intimacy
flowing
divine
You are
and you aren’t
or at least you won’t be
you will
but not in the same
way
differently
We see surface
with our eye-vision
but penetrate
deeper
to mind
and soul hidden
Imam Ghazali Quotes
Divine Knowledge
The question of the divine love is so profound that it is known to only a few who have it.
A child has no information about the achievements of adults. An ordinary adult cannot understand attainments of an learned adult.
In the same way, an educated man cannot yet understand the experience of enlightened saints or Sufis.
Faith in Allah
“To completely trust in ALLAH is to be like a child who knows deeply that even if he does not call for the mother, the mother is totally aware of his condition and is looking after him.”
Possessions
Your possessions are whatever you cannot loose in a shipwreck
The sick man
To the sick man, sweet mater tastes bitter in the mouth.
The sick man
To the sick man, sweet mater tastes bitter in the mouth.
The Infertile Woman
The man went to a doctor and told him that his wife has become sterile and cannot have children anymore.
The doctor felt her pulse and told her:
‘I cannot treat you and in any case you will die within forty days’
The woman was in total disdain as she left However after forty day she did not die as said by the doctor.
Al-Ghazali was an Islamic philosopher and mystic born in Persia (modern day Iran) in 1058 CE. He is considered to be one of the most important Muslim philosophers, and his critique of Greek philosophy would change the direction of Islamic philosophy. Al-Ghazali is known for rejecting Neoplatonic and Aristotelian ideas, such as the world being eternal rather than created, that God’s nature means he does not know particular things, and that resurrection is impossible. In contrast, he used logic and reason to put forth his own Islamic philosophy which is in line with traditional Islamic beliefs. Additionally, Al-Ghazali is known for having undergone a spiritual crisis, after which he would become a mystic. In his life and writings, he popularized Sufism (Islamic mysticism) and showed how it could be combined with Orthodox Islamic theology and religious practice.
Al-Ghazali was born in Tus, Iran where he grew up studying religion and philosophy (falasifa). A professor at the University of Baghdad, he left after having a spiritual crisis. He would travel around living a solitary, modest lifestyle and make the pilgrimage to Mecca. He became a Sufi, and would come to teach others that mysticism is the path to true knowledge of God. He saw philosophy as limited, while mysticism allows one the possibility of experiencing the unlimited and “seeing” God.
Al-Ghazali is famous for both summarizing the writings of earlier Islamic philosophers such as al-Farabi and Ibn Sina (aka Avicenna) in his work The Intentions of the Philosophers, as well as for sharply critiquing them and the Islamic tradition of embracing Greek philosophical ideas in his work The Incoherence of the Philosophers. While he used logic to formulate his critiques, he would reject three Greek philosophical ideas which were counter to traditional Islamic belief.
First, he rejected the philosophical belief that the world is eternal. This belief was based on the idea that God could not have changed his mind, and therefore for the world to have been created at a specific moment in time wouldn’t make sense. The world would therefore have to have always existed. Rather than simply disagreeing with this as a theologian, al-Ghazali wanted to prove philosophically i.e. through logic and reason, that the belief that the world is eternal does not make sense (i.e. is “incoherent”). He does this by explaining that the creation of the world does not mean that God changed His mind, because the creation of the world would have always been a part of God’s plan. Creation is merely the unfolding of this unchanging plan.
Second, al-Ghazali rejected the philosophical belief that because of God’s nature as an eternal being, he would only know the “universal” nature of things, rather than their particular features. For example, a man would be known as a man, but not as a particular man. This philosophical belief was based on the idea that since the things of this world are constantly changing, and God does not change, he would therefore only know the things that don’t change (such as man’s nature), and not the particular things that do (such as getting a new job). Similar to his rejection of the philosopher’s argument for why the world could not have been created, al-Ghazali explains that if God knows all, he would have knowledge of all the changes that happen to us even before they’ve occurred. Everything is simply the unfolding of God’s plan.
And third, he will reject the philosopher’s claim that bodily resurrection is impossible. This philosophical position was based on the belief that since the world is governed by cause and effect, to bring back a body that has already decayed would be contrary to the laws of science. Al-Ghazali explains that since God can do whatever he wants, he can ressurect the dead. Al-Ghazali sees causation as God creating the cause and the effect simultaneously. If he desires to resurrect the dead, just as his plan included the creation of the world, then the nature of causality as we know it could also change in that instance.
Al-Ghazali embraces the traditional belief that God is both omniscient (“all-knowing”) and omnipotent (“all-powerful”). He explains that as human beings, we have free will. At the same time, since God is all-powerful as well as all-knowing, whatever we choose to do is what he would have wanted us to choose, and he already knows whatever we will choose. In this way, free will and God’s omniscience and omnipotence are not at odds, but are two different perspectives on the same reality. Likewise, al-Ghazali believed that we are living in the “best possible world.” He explains the existence of evil in the world in that God is not obligated to do what we would like him to do. God is not responsible to anyone. He does what He believes to be correct at all times.
After experiencing his spiritual crisis, al-Ghazali realized that there is a limit to what one can known on the basis of philosophy and reason. Philosophy is limited and deals with what is finite. In order to truly understand the nature of reality and God, one must have an experience that lies beyond reason. This is known as a mystical experience, and al-Ghazali would embrace the Islamic mysticism known as Sufism. He would show that it is through the mystical experience, when one stops trying to think about things analytically but instead uses intuition, that one is able to attain a vision of the divine.
Al-Ghazali believed that as humans we are made of a body and a soul. In contrast to the body, which is a material substance, the soul is a spiritual substance and lives on after the death of our bodies. In this lifetime, we can either focus on material things and sensory pleasures, or we can turn our attention to the divine. If we are only concerned with bodily pleasures, al-Ghazali explains that when we are dead the soul will suffer because it is no longer able to fulfill these desires since it lacks a body. However, if while alive we focus on that which is divine, when the body dies the soul will be able to have an experience of the divine. In this way, al-Ghazali sees the mystic’s experience as a preview to this experience of God which is possible after death.
Also, al-Ghazali’s understanding of things allows him to support traditional Islamic religious practices. He sees these practices as allowing the body and soul to be in a state of harmony, which translates into virtuous actions such as courage and justice. He embraced both Aristotle’s doctrine of the mean, which states that balance is achieved through avoiding extremes, as well as the laws of the Islamic religion (shari‘a). In this way, al-Ghazali would embrace certain Greek ideas, and make use of reason and philosophical thought, while at the same time rejecting that which went against traditional Islamic belief.
Al-Ghazali is known as one of the most important Islamic philosophers, and is seen as the most important Muslim to have lived after Muhammed himself. He would influence not only Islamic philosophers and theologians, but also medieval Christian and Jewish thinkers such as Aquinas and Maimonides. His work would be famously criticized by Ibn Rushd (Averroes) in his work The Incoherence of the Incoherence who writes that “to say that philosophers are incoherent is itself to make an incoherent statement.” Nevertheless, al-Ghazali’s impact on Islamic philosophy was decisive, as traditional Islamic beliefs such as the Creation of the World, God’s omnipotence, and bodily resurrection were maintained. Likewise, al-Ghazali successfully brought Sufism and mystical experience from the fringes of Islamic society to the center of traditional belief and practice.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)