Letter – 21 Safar 1353 (1934-06-04)

General Social and Faqr Guidelines from His Eminence Haj Sheikh Muhammad Hasan Bichareh Bidokhti Gonabadi, Saleh Ali Shah
to Honorable Haj Sultan Hossein Tabandeh during His Studies

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Although I have given these instructions repeatedly, I reiterate them again for emphasis: the hardship of being away from home and the passage of one’s life should not be wasted. In terms of spiritual matters, moral development, and refinement of character, the necessity is self-evident and needs no reminder—it is the very purpose of creation.

For encouragement and awareness, regularly read the anecdotes of the mystics, and even try to memorize parts of them so they remain with you for moments of need. It is also beneficial on a practical level.

Books on rijal (biographies of the companions of the Imams) should be read and remembered. Note down specific cases that support the more complex teachings of the mystics. Mystical texts—especially difficult ones like the writings of Ibn ʿArabi—should be studied like a lesson, repeatedly and with reflection. Read them with Agha Sheikh Asadollah. Even if another scholar or philosopher teaches these texts, it is acceptable. In the past, there were teachers who taught mystical terminology and concepts.

The source of wisdom and gnosis, the foundation of knowledge and goodness in both worlds, and the legacy of God, the Messenger, and the Holy Quran, must not be abandoned. Study it with contemplation and precision—especially Qur’anic exegesis. Reading and reflecting on any commentary is beneficial. Having verses memorized, so that in any situation the relevant verse comes to mind, is very helpful. If you also remember the chapter and its location, even better.

Books of hadith, especially those on ethics, must be known and read so that one can reference them when needed. The comprehensive works of philosophy cannot be completed solely through lessons—they should be studied through relevant sections and alongside intermediate texts. Also, consult theological works along the way.

A basic knowledge of medicine is necessary—even if the government prohibits non-licensed practice. The science itself is beneficial. Pulse diagnosis should be taught practically by a skilled physician and studied carefully.

Authoritative histories—especially of Islam and Iran—must be read. History affects every branch of knowledge and is deeply relevant.

Mathematical sciences such as geography, classical and modern geometry, classical and modern astronomy, and classical and modern arithmetic should be studied. Any amount of knowledge in these areas is useful. Even learning another language, like Turkish, can be helpful. If time permits, reading newspapers and international news—essentially the history of the present era—provides useful worldly insight.

Teaching any subject is more beneficial than merely learning it—provided it is done with study and precision. Practice writing by hand daily, even just a few lines in both large and small script, with care and guidance—it should not be neglected.

Personal health (hifz al-sihha) is the foundation of everything and essential to life. Be attentive—especially in moderation regarding food, clothing, fresh air, bodily excretions, exercise, sleep, and the like.

Foundational Arabic grammar is quickly forgotten and is necessary for all Arabic texts and sciences—do not neglect it. Literary appreciation today often depends on memorizing Persian and Arabic poetry and knowing the poets’ biographies. This should not be ignored, especially the more complex mystical poetry.

Islamic texts of various types, as well as books of other religions, should be read. This gives the spiritual seeker insight and appreciation for his own faith. It’s also necessary to address doubts and occasions where one may need knowledge. Even if some terms are unclear, asking those who know does no harm, provided two principles are respected:

First, that it does not cause objections from them; and second, that it does not raise suspicion among others. Jurisprudential issues—whatever a person needs in daily life, whether obligatory, recommended, prohibited, or disliked—should be memorized. For other matters, it is enough to know where to find them in books. If someone asks, don’t answer unless you are certain—do not reply based on assumption.

You should also secure a livelihood in a way that does not hinder your studies. Even trades like photography and similar occupations are acceptable. Diverse sciences and exercises—like reading compilations and miscellanies such as Kashkul, Mikhlat, or Bustan—sharpen the mind and are beneficial. Occasionally, review Persian vocabulary from older books and pay attention to modern usage as well. Similarly, Arabic homonyms are distinct in meaning and should not be understood only by hearing. Precision and inquiry, even in words, is important. Detailed prayer books that identify sources and narrators should be read carefully. Their content can indicate whether a prayer originates from the Imams. Some of these, when appropriate, can be recited as devotional supplications.

Modern works translated from Western sources dealing with psychology—such as hypnotism, spirit communication, physiognomy, and self-knowledge—may be read with discernment if encountered.

Do not overextend yourself in sending letters to the brethren and other friends to the point that it hinders your work, but do not neglect essential replies, congratulations, and similar social obligations. For subjects unrelated to you personally, or contentious issues, or anything where a misplaced word could be problematic, consult someone knowledgeable—your main task is to study. In letters to the fuqara, avoid boasting or excessive humility to the point of undermining the purpose. Regularly write to the elders, and occasionally to fellow seekers, paternal cousins, and other relatives.

The goal is to remind, not to suggest that all this must be done at once. It may not seem possible, but the point is to allocate your time wisely during your period of study, for leisure, for meetings, and for gatherings—so that no time is wasted. Your conduct, interactions, morals, and religious etiquette have been repeatedly addressed, and, God willing, will need no further emphasis.

May your conduct be such that it draws the attention of both friend and stranger—for therein lies the good of both worlds. Following the state educational curriculum should only be for passing exams; otherwise, your approach should be comprehensive.