Declaration – 17 Rabiʿ al-Awwal 1349 (1930-08-12)

Declaration of His Eminence Haj Sheikh Muhammad Hasan Bichareh Bidokhti Gonabadi, Saleh Ali Shah
on the Occasion of Moving into a New Residence in the Salehabad Neighborhood of Bidokht

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To the dear brothers residing and staying in Gonabad, especially, I state the following: On the occasion of moving into a new residence—whose primary purpose in its construction and renovation was to provide a spacious place for the comfort and reception of the brethren, and a suitable location for the khaniqah, particularly on Friday nights and days—I felt it necessary to share some reminders with the brethren. These include the designated times for visits and formal matters so that all are informed. I also wish to highlight a few points so that not only may they be reminded, but others unfamiliar with them may also be informed and guided toward what is good. Although among the beloved, external formalities not indicative of inner reality are generally set aside, and true etiquette lies in the heart and soul, disorder and lack of structure often result in neglecting obligations, inconvenience to others, and at times jealousy or criticism from others.

1. As has been repeatedly discussed and is already known, Friday nights and days should be reserved for worship, reflection, and visitation. I do not prefer that non-fuqara of the Ni‘matullahi order visit during these times, as it creates discomfort both for them and for the fuqara—unless close friends come occasionally with the right intention. Similarly, if fuqara visit without intending ziyarat, it is not desirable. On Fridays, before noon, even if someone expresses the desire to meet, I will not respond. Visitation on Friday must be purely sincere.
2. Due to the former lack of space in the outer quarters, Friday night gatherings were temporarily held at the blessed shrine. Likewise, Monday night gatherings—which are commonly known and for which the homes of the brethren are insufficient—were held at the shrine. Other gatherings like Ruzah ceremonies also took place there. Now, with ample space and a secured area for the sisters to follow the prayer between the outer and inner quarters, gatherings will be held in the outer section. Congregational prayer will be performed, followed by sitting until around 2 or 2:30 a.m., engaging in remembrance, reflection, and focused attention. As before, readings from books will aid the concentration. Indeed, during states of attention, what is heard and understood has greater impact. One should strive to understand the true spiritual knowledge and act on it seriously, so that the gatherings do not end in mere attendance. Insha’Allah, these gatherings should differ positively from others. Let us recognize their value, awaken ourselves a little, set aside worldly affairs during such times, not use fatigue as an excuse, and attend as much as possible—reminding those around us who may not be aware. This gathering and attention should be seen as a precursor to blessings in this world and the hereafter.
3. After the Friday night gathering, the large room is generally available for the brethren to rest. However, meals will not be provided for local or visiting brethren, unless there was a prior arrangement. Others who did not have such arrangements should not cause discomfort. Anyone may eat their own food and stay overnight in the khaniqah room, which would be pleasing to this humble servant and to God and His Messenger. May God grant success.
4. On Friday mornings, the Quran is recited at home, and the sisters attend until about an hour into the day. Afterwards, we proceed to the blessed shrine for the Ruzah ceremony and sermon, which begins around an hour and a half after sunrise. After the shrine, we return to the outer section briefly, and I then go to the inner quarters. The brethren should remain in the khaniqah room reading mystical texts, discussing religious matters, and reflecting. Those who are not returning to their villages should ideally not disperse before noon. Village brethren who wish to stay will be provided food, and arrangements are their responsibility. Congregational prayer is held in the afternoon, after which everyone disperses. Worldly affairs and requests may be addressed in the afternoon. On non-Fridays, since no food is prepared, brethren with business may come in the morning and return before noon. No preparations are made on nights like Ashura or the 21st of Ramadan—it is a burden on the household.
5. Bidokht brethren who are not invited for lunch on Fridays may still attend the prayer—there is sufficient space for everyone, including the sisters, who also have a designated place.
6. Outside Friday and Monday nights, I am occupied with personal and public affairs. As livelihood obligations require, these times are not specifically set aside for ziyarat. However, during my morning presence in the outer quarters—usually for one or two hours—I attend to tasks, appointments, and accounting. In the afternoons, I go to teach lessons (especially Qur’anic exegesis) in simple language with public benefit. Brethren wishing for ziyarat or learning may attend the school during this time.
7. Visiting fuqara from outside who do not have families may stay at the school, as before. Each room contains only a rug and basic used bedding. Those with families will be assigned a residence, though without furnishings. I myself do not have many extra belongings. Visitors from regions like Pishkuh, Tun, Barakuh, or Poskalut coming for a few days should bring their own necessities and bedding for their comfort.
8. The appointed time for ziyarat by Bidokht sisters is Friday morning during the Quran recitation. On other days, attending shortly after sunrise is also permitted. Prayer spaces are available for following Friday’s midday and night prayers. For sisters from other villages, there is no scheduled time for ziyarat on non-Fridays.
9. Kissing the ground is only appropriate when someone encounters a true believer and, overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, performs a prostration of thanks to God. Others should not imitate this—it becomes meaningless and is even forbidden if done heedlessly. Even those with genuine feelings should not perform it in contexts that encourage imitation or foster illusions. A heartfelt expression of gratitude is sufficient. Handshakes, when done with sincerity and love, are acts of worship. However, after prayers or during moments of contemplation or other sensitive occasions, it is not recommended. Likewise, in Ruzah ceremonies, repeated handshakes during large gatherings can be disruptive. I also dislike them in the street, standing, or in the mosque—unless greeting a newly arrived traveler. When seated, handshakes are acceptable. I particularly dislike kissing feet in public streets, and even in other settings, such acts—especially when imitative or causing jealousy—are not suitable.
10. Those expressing a desire for spiritual initiation should first seek knowledge from the wise and discerning, refine their character and conduct, participate in faqr gatherings, and study the works of the mystics carefully. Instead of holding on to hems and standing aimlessly, they should awaken during the night and truly dedicate themselves. Anyone approaching with such intention should not be treated as a guest in the outer quarters, especially if they are from elsewhere and their purpose is known. If someone has a practical issue, they may be assisted without referring to initiation. But I will not help them afterward. Darvishhood is a commitment to the afterlife, free of worldly motives. Even others, if they do not request worldly help openly and instead seek inner assistance, will find it more quickly and effectively.
11. On non-Fridays, I sit briefly in the outer quarters in the morning, then go to the house or outside. However, I am available until noon for those with matters to discuss. Generally, I have time. Those coming just for a visit, if it forces me to delay, should keep it short. Others should clearly express their matters and, once concluded, not linger. No one should be kept waiting at the door. If someone is engaged in a private discussion or confidential matter, others should be considerate. While someone else is speaking, one should not interrupt. Excessive whispering is not appropriate. I do not write certifications or stamp papers unless I hear things personally. When I am out, do not bring such papers. Also, do not knock in the afternoon—I am unavailable. After lunch is for prayer, rest, tea, and then school until near sunset. Do not come for meetings or business, and do not wake me from sleep. If someone does come, I will not have time, and nothing will be resolved. Anyone invited to lunch or dinner should arrive on time and not wait for further notice.
12. I would like the brethren to also hold private gatherings outside Friday and Monday nights, and instead of engaging in idle talk or gossip, they should read mystical or other beneficial books, useful for both worldly and spiritual matters. Likewise, gatherings in other villages should be held regularly on Fridays and Mondays.

Peace be upon all the believers. May God grant them understanding of what He loves and is pleased with.