Self-advertisement

One day in the life of a Sufi

Self-advertisement (ishtehar)

Raziuddin Aquil 

There was a saintly person in Nagaur (Rajasthan), named Hamiduddin Suwali. He was asked how some Sufis are not remembered by anyone after they pass away, whereas the name and renown of some others spread far and wide after their death. How do we explain this difference (in tafaawute ahwaal az kujast)?

The sheikh explained that those who strive when alive for their own publicity (ishtehar), their name and popularity are obliterated after they are gone (naam o siyate u mundaris mi-shawad); and those who do not advertise themselves, keeping themselves away from public glare (khud ra poshideh daashte-ast), their name and fame spread all over the world (naam o siyate u dar hame jahan mi-rasad).

For, in contrast to the fake propositions which eventually fizzle out, virtues of truthful and sincere devotion are revealed by God for a lasting reputation (mardane khuda khud ra poshideh daashte-and o haq ta'la ishaan ra zaahir gardanideh-ast).

The choice is ours for the taking, between fake propriety and sincere efforts. A selfie or two do not harm!