Declaration – 17 Rabi‘ al-Awwal 1433 (2012-02-10)

Declaration of Hazrat Dr. Nour Ali Tabandeh, Majzoub Ali Shah
On the Occasion of the Birth of the Prophet (PBUH) and Imam Sadiq (AS)

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I extend my congratulations on the blessed birth of the Messenger of God and his distinguished spiritual heir, Imam Sadiq. I hope we may be worthy of being counted among their followers. Dear brothers, please note that the school of “faqr” and “dervishhood” has no political agenda and does not seek to gather supporters. Rather, our home and the door of divine mercy are always open so that, relying on God's will, we may accept and guide any seeker and searcher. We ourselves are in need of the Divine Threshold and have no need for publicity. We have neither spokespersons nor representatives—especially those who, in private or public gatherings, appear without observing religious rules or utter seemingly pious phrases.

On the occasion of the birth of the “Sun and Moon” (the Prophet (PBUH) and Imam Sadiq (AS)), I wish to recall a few points, even if repeated. Since they summarize faith-based commitments and the teachings of the dervish path, it is necessary to remind again that: وَذَكِّرْ فَإِنَّ الذِّكْرَى تَنفَعُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ .

1. Shari‘ah and “tariqah” are one reality with two faces of the same divine coin, and cannot be separated. The “fuqara” are obliged to observe both the rulings of the sacred Islamic law and the manners of “tariqah” and “faqr”, which are the soul of those acts. Emulation is permitted only in practical matters from a qualified jurist (“mujtahid”), but in the fundamentals of religion and beliefs, it is not permissible. Instead, these must be based on research, thought, and reflection. Observance of the laws of the Prophetic Shari‘ah and the ways of the Alid Tariqah are inseparable, both being obligations of faith for all “fuqara”. As mentioned in the spiritual commitment and divine covenant of allegiance, the “fuqara” must submit to and obey the laws of the Shari‘ah. To understand them better, they should emulate scholars characterized by the four essential attributes of religious authority, and always maintain utmost respect and courtesy toward them.
2. Participation in “faqr” gatherings—sessions for the remembrance of God, learning religious etiquette, moral refinement, fellowship with believers, purification of the soul, and shedding of worldly grievances—is, under its stated conditions, particularly in these times, among the essential supplements to the spiritual journey of the “fuqara”. It unites hearts and weakens the hostility of opponents. Therefore, it is one of the most important responsibilities and concerns of the “fuqara” in our time. The tradition of our predecessors and guides in the Order was to attend these gatherings. We must continue to keep this light burning, for “faqr” gatherings are the best opportunities for the remembrance of God.
3. It must be reiterated, as previously stated, that only the recorded speeches of the Qutbs should be used in “faqr” gatherings. Additionally, “Pand-e Saleh” should be recited, along with selected works and writings of Hazrat Sultan Ali Shah, Nour Ali Shah, Reza Ali Shah, Mahboub Ali Shah, or other prose works of the elders of “Mysticism”. Only one book should be read at a time, without personal interpretation or explanation, and after its completion, another book may be started. For poetry, use classical poets such as Sa‘di, Hafez, Mawlavi, ‘Iraqi, Fayz, etc. If the “fuqara” wish to listen to speeches by Mashayekh or others, they may do so privately outside of the “faqr” gatherings.
4. “Faqr” gatherings are held on Friday and Monday nights, beginning or ending with the obligatory prayer. The “fuqara” should observe the order and etiquette of the gatherings, maintain complete silence, and be in a state of attention and vigilance during dhikr and contemplation. By fulfilling the commitments of their covenant, they will gain the satisfaction of the elders of the Order, leading to the fulfillment of needs, relief from troubles, the acceptance of prayers, and increased blessings.
5. In “faqr” gatherings, there must always be separation between men and women. Throughout the gathering, women must observe proper Islamic hijab. This requirement applies not only to public gatherings but also to any gathering held in the name of “faqr”, even if all attendees belong to the same family. It is recommended that on Friday and Monday nights, when gathered in remembrance of God, everyone should assume they are not “mahram” to one another. Men and women should sit separately, and proper hijab must be observed throughout. Any behavior or action contradicting this will not be acceptable. Furthermore, all “fuqara” should disperse immediately after the gathering, and no other meeting should be held at the same location before or after the “faqr” session.
6. In visits, family relations, and social interactions, the key issue is maintaining proper boundaries of “mahram” and “non-mahram”, and the hijab of women—which is their ornament and a major source of individual and societal chastity. Participation in mixed gatherings, especially those marked by moral laxity and numerous ethical vices, must be avoided. In such matters, the dignity of “faqr” and the Order must be upheld. Great care should be taken that such events do not take place before or after “faqr” gatherings, nor be combined with them, so that divine favor may be more abundant. Attention to these points is especially necessary for “fuqara” residing abroad.
7. As emphasized in the first Declaration, the “fuqara” should thoroughly review all previous reminders to know their duties in every situation. They should strictly refrain from initiating verbal or written consultations with the elders regarding personal or worldly family matters. Instead, they should use their intellect and consult knowledgeable individuals, and resolve their issues through careful adherence to the rulings of the Shari‘ah and the “tariqah”.
8. Observing the law is essential for everyone in society—especially the “fuqara”, who must be law-abiding. This approach is itself the best practical response to lawbreakers and a step toward building a lawful society.
9. It is reiterated that, especially in our time, attending “faqr” gatherings is among the primary duties of the “fuqara”. Furthermore, respect toward all pioneering faithful—especially the honorable Mashayekh and authorized prayer leaders (“ma'zunin”)—is obligatory for all. Of course, they too must teach the etiquette of “faqr” with brotherhood toward the “fuqara”, and with fatherly love and kindness toward the youth and newcomers.