The Straight Path Simplified: An Annotated Translation of Qasd Al-Sabil

Whether referred to as tazkiyyah, tasawwuf, or suluk, most believers have an inherent desire to tread the path of seeking Allah's pleasure. Though many eagerly embark upon this path, some make serious blunders along the way causing them to stray due to a lack of essential knowledge. Others, though they continue to strive, may miss the goal leaving them disillusioned and frustrated. Some may even reach the objective, but not having the requisite understanding to realize it, they are left despondent and overcome with spiritual fatigue. To save people from these pitfalls, there was an immense need to clarify the true meaning and actual objective of the spiritual path. Thus, the erudite scholar and great reviver of the spiritual path, Hakim al-Ummah, Mawllana Muhammad Ashraf 'All Thanwi a authored a simple treatise that highlights the essential principles of treading the path to Allah to serve as a guide for those who sincerely seek Him. The Straight Path: Simplified presents an annotated translation of this invaluable guide, bringing Hakim al-Ummah's essential work into the modern reader's sphere with explanatory notes that serve as a bridge to his teachings. These notes aid the reader by offering contextual insights, clarifying intricate concepts, and addressing pertinent contemporary concerns. Contents include stages of suluj, sincere repentance, signs of a qualified shaykh, the objective of a seeker, Shariah and Tariqah, the regimen, peace of mind, volitional and non-volitional matters, matters of caution, sincere advice for men, women, and the people of dhikr, as well as appendices featuring the Noble Muhammadan Litany.