Just based on how we think—just based on what we focus on—just based on how we talk to ourselves—just based on how we explain our life experiences. You know, the lens that we wear to see the world, it actually determines how we feel and who we are.
How do I explain this? Well, a lot of people have this personality – how do I put it – they want to be like Ibn’ Ata Allah al-Iskandari, a saint who has spiritual insights from God. He was also a jurist and a muhaddith (specialist in the sciences of hadith or sayings of Prophet Muhammad, upon him peace and blessings).
They see themselves as Ibn’ Ata Allah – a sage or spiritual guru – the Khidr in the story of Moses, upon him peace.
However, they come across to others like As Samiri – hurling spiritual insights they do not understand at anyone and everyone – hoping for the recognition in the eyes of people of a sage or spiritual guru. Why run after aphorisms of Ibn’ Ata Allah if you are still confused on a small chapter of the Quran.
Reading and reflecting on the Quran would be much better than looking for aphorisms of saints to promote yourself as a spiritual guru.
Do you have any idea whom I am talking about?
He it is Who has sent down to thee the Book: In it are verses basic or fundamental (of established meaning); they are the foundation of the Book: others are allegorical. But those in whose hearts is perversity follow the part thereof that is allegorical, seeking discord, and searching for its hidden meanings, but no one knows its hidden meanings except Allah. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: “We believe in the Book; the whole of it is from our Lord:” and none will grasp the Message except men of understanding.
(Quran 3:7)