We discussed about Islam today, its three major sects, the Sunni, Shi'ite and Sufi. The Sufi sect is quite interesting -- they are the mystics of the Islam religion. Their thoughts and activity as a result of their belief can be quite beautiful.
Ruth showed me this poem written by a 7th century Sufi:
If I worship you in fear of Hell, burn me in it
If I worship you in hope of Paradise, exclude me from it
But If I worship You for your own Being,
don't withhold from me your everlasting beauty
~ Rabiah Al-Adawiyah
Now, isn't that so beautiful?
pearlie
Consider how common it is in our evangelistic approach to motivate people to believe in Christianity due to fear of hell :)
ReplyDeleteFear of hell is one motivation but it cannot be the only nor the primary motive. Love God with all our being because God is who He is - thats the great commandment that sums up the entire law
I liked it Pearlie.. speaks to our motives.
ReplyDeleteHi Dave,
ReplyDeleteIn a dialogue, it is the last thing to bring up :) but I must say I hv done it before when I was very very young!!!
Bob,
ReplyDeleteThe thoughts and writings of the Sufi is not unlike ours :)
pearlie, just to say i'm really enjoying this series!
ReplyDeleteGood to know that BK,
ReplyDeleteI was being succinct though, but glad you enjoyed it nonetheless :)