CHEIKH AHMADOU BAMBA & SUFISM

CHEIKH AHMADOU BAMBA & SUFISM

786 . . . This program will discuss the life, teachings and poetry of the great West African Sufi Master Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, esoteric aspects of Islam and knowledge of Self.  We are studying the poetry of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba entitled Massalik Al-Jinan (Pathways to Paradise)... 888.

Know however that far-reaching knowledge and many actions of worship while one is full of shortcomings [constitutes delusion]; however giving up both of them.  Lest one should have one's effort besmirched by [unavoidable] failings, or their [absent-minded] fulfillment without any true reverence in the heart, are among the most dangerous illusions...  As for delaying one's repentance, for fear that one should relapse into similar offences [against ALLAH], that is  naught but a snare of Satan, the rebel.  O my brother! Do know that knowledge is superior to action, being its principle and root. Happy are those that have acquired it!  Nevertheless, knowledge could not bear fruit and bring profit without subsequently putting it into practice; so try to combine both of them...  A small amount of good deeds based on knowledge, will most certainly entail more reward than a host of actions performed in ignorance   Massalik Al-Jinan lines 100-105