The Language of the Future
Sufi Terminology
by Murshid F.A. Ali ElSenossi
hilya
Ornament
(Hilya). This is a work of calligraphy or decorative art or literature which describes the Noble Qualities of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (May the Salutations of Allah be upon him and Peace).
(Uswa hasana). The Holy Prophet Muhammad al Mustapha (May the Salutations of Allah be upon him and Peace) is the beautiful model. Through his perfect example man is given the means of drawing closer, and yet closer, to Allah. The degrees of such nearness depend upon the manner and attitude in which one follows the beautiful model. Those who love Allah and His Messenger more than anything, more than life itself, are the slaves who follow Muhammad al Mustapha in their outer lives and in their inner realities. To approach Allah, the slave must first meet the Holy Prophet Muhammad. This meeting is a Mystery. The Holy Prophet Muhammad, the beautiful model, becomes the slave's inner reality through the unveiling of the Reality of Muhammad. The hadith says, "Who has seen me has seen Allah".
(Na't). Poetry and songs in honour of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (May the Salutations of Allah be upon him and Peace). Such poetry and song can operate on many different levels of meaning, ranging from the beautiful and simple love of Allah's Beloved, which is a characteristic of all pious Muslims, through to the unveiling of the Reality of Muhammad, which infuses the hearts of his slaves with Divine Love.
