Like other Sufis, Sharafuddin Maneri believes that ‘mystical knowledge
is the very essence of the souls of believers.Whosoever is not destined for
this knowledge does not really exist.’
10
‘It is clear that mystical knowledge
cannot be gained through the exercise of one’s intellect, unless it is granted
by the Lord; the uninitiated may be highly intelligent and yet devoid of
mystical knowledge. Nor can knowledge be obtained by hearing, unless
the Lord grants it, for most unbelievers receive an invitation from the
prophets and hear a description of this knowledge without ever acquiring
it. It has been established that knowledge of the Lord is granted only through
His guidance. Hence it is that Abu Bakr, the Righteous, said: “We recognize
God by means of God, and other than God by the light of God.”’
11
10
Chapter 45: Mystical Knowledge of the Transcendent Creator, ibid., p. 174
11
ibid,, p. 176.
