Secrets of the Masters

Excerpt from Oriental Magic
by Idries Shah
(1956)

THE ELEVEN SECRET RULES OF THE INITIATE IN SUFISM

Characteristic of all Sufi Orders are the Rules laid down by the founder --and sometimes added to by his successors-- for the conduct and concentration of Seekers. These are the indispensable Rules of the Naqshbandi Order:

1. Awareness of Breathing. The mind must be attuned to be secretly aware of everything, even breath. At the same time, the mind must pulsate with thoughts of the Infinite (divine essence and omnipotence).

2. Travel in One's Own Land. It must be remembered frequently that the Sufi is a `traveller' -- along the Sufi Path.

3. Watching the Feet. When walking, the Seeker must glue his gaze upon his steps . The secret meaning of this is that he must be aware of where he is going, in a metaphorical sense.

4. Solitude in Company. The mind is to be repeatedly concentrated so that, even in company with others, in the midst of distractions, the Sufi may keep his thoughts relevant to his task.

5. Remembering. The Sufi must never forget that he is a dedicated person.

6. Restraint. This refers to short prayers which are used to punctuate the repetitions of the Dhikr.

7 . Awareness. The mind must become aware that there are many distractions. These are to be combated.

8 . Recollection. Concentration must be possible through thinking this word, and without words.

9. Pause of Time. During pauses in thinking, the Sufi must recapitulate his actions, and examine them.

10. Pause of Numbers. Awareness that the required number of repetitions of the Dhikr phrase have been completed.

11. Pause of the Heart. During this pause the mind is trained to visualize the Seeker's heart bearing the Name of Allah.


from "The Fakirs and Their Doctrines" in Oriental Magic by Idries Shah, Octagon Press.