What is True Love?

■ What is True Love?

In a gathering of Aulia Allah, a discussion arose about the nature of true love. It was asked, “Who possesses true love, and what does it mean?” Various perspectives were shared:

1. Khawaja Gharib Nawaz, Moinuddin Chishti (رحمة الله عليه) stated:

❝True love is to show patience (Sabr) during hardships.❞

2. Shaykh Shahabuddin Suhrawardi (رحمة الله عليه) shared:

❝True love is to be so deeply engrossed in Allah’s love that even if a sword strikes one’s head, the person remains unaware.❞

3. Another saint in the gathering said:

❝True love is when every part of a person burns to ashes, yet they neither complain nor utter a sigh.❞

4. Finally, another saint remarked:

❝True love is to find joy in repeated trials and tribulations.❞

This last definition was widely accepted and admired by the saints present. Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti (رحمة الله عليه) further recalled an earlier discussion with Rabi’ah Basri (رحمة الله عليها) and other saints, where it was agreed that to remain content in trials is the hallmark of true love.

Reflecting on this, Prof. Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri (حفظه الله) elaborated: While all the definitions are profound, the preference for the last one lies in its connection to one’s spiritual state (Haal) rather than temporary spiritual emotions (Kayfiyyat).

Kayfiyyat (spiritual emotions) are fleeting and change with circumstances.

Haal (spiritual state) is enduring, representing a constant connection with Allah ﷻ.

Thus, the one who remains steadfast in trials (Haal) and finds joy in them demonstrates true love, for these trials are Allah’s way of refining and elevating them. The tribulations test whether the “vessel” of the lover is strong enough to hold the love of the Beloved.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

❝My Ummah is like rain; it is unclear whether its beginning or end will be better.❞

This indicates that the blessings and ranks of the Ummah will persist until the Day of Judgment. Although the noble ranks of the Companions (Sahabah) are unmatched, Allah ﷻ has kept the doors of spiritual blessings (Barakah) and ranks open for the believers. These blessings may be hidden at times and manifest at others, ensuring the Ummah remains hopeful and continues striving in devotion.

May Allah ﷻ grant us steadfastness in trials and the ability to attain His love.

اللّٰهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَىٰ مُحَمَّدٍ وَّعَلَىٰ اٰلِ مُحَمَّدٍ

FJ 2.12.24