The Principles of Naqshbandi Sufi Order

Abstract

The present study attempts to expound the principles of Naqshbandi Sufi Order، focusing on only three of its eleven basic principles: Essential Remembrance، Dhikr، Watch Your Steps، and Journey Homeward. In this study the descriptive method is used. Dhikr is one of the basic principles and it means the path that leads one to reach the highest level of manner to know Allah. On the other hand، Watch Your Steps; means that while walking the seeker must keep his eyes on his feet. Wherever he places his feet، his eyes must be there. He is not allowed to glance right or left، or in front of him، because unnecessary sights will veil the heart. Most veils on the heart are created by the pictures which are transmitted from the eyes to the mind in daily life. The Journey Homeward is divided into external journey and internal journey. The former has many difficulties which beginners cannot endure without committing forbidden things because they are weak in their worship .As for the latter، the seeker has to forsake his low manners and move to high manners; he throws out of his heart all worldly desires. The Sufis are considered to be people of the highest morality. Nonetheless، they are not bound by the shackles of rituals and customs. Religion for them is important only so long as it does not hinder spiritual promotion