Perfection of Morals

Ikhmalush Shiyam (Perfection of Morals) is a commentary by Moulana Muhammad Abdullah Gangohi (rahmatullahi alayh) of Kitaab Al-Hikam (The Book of Wisdoms) by Shaikh Ibn Ata’Allah Iskandari (rahmatullahi alayh). The Shaikh was born in Alexandria, Egypt in 658AH and passed away in Cairo in 709AH. He was a distinguished Maliki scholar teaching Islamic Jurisprudence and Hadith at al-Azhar Masjid and Mansuriyyah Madrasah in Cairo. He belonged to the Shādhilī sect of Sufis which stemmed from Morocco and spread throughout North Africa.This being his most notable work (which has been translated into several languages), is a composition of 260+ esoteric aphorisms that are short but immensely thought provoking. The aphorisms assimilated together are a comprehensive description and guide to the Journey of Sulook. Numerous commentaries have been written on it over the centuries, some being several volumes in length to elucidate the depth of the subtle meanings encapsulated in so few words. It is universally acclaimed by both Muslim and non-Muslim scholars as being the crown jewel of kitaabs in Tasawwuf.This book takes the reader on a journey of the transformation of the self by way of the mind realigning its focus to pleasing Allah, together with exercising willpower to oppose one’s evil desires so one’s actions are always in accordance to the Shariah. This facilitates perfecting the various prescribed forms of worship so one maintains a disposition of being constantly absorbed in the remembrance of Allah. Each stage of the journey is hampered by temptations and trials and tribulations, which can only be overcome by an unshakeable desire for Allah. Surmounting all these obstacles with patience opens the eyes to accepting the wisdom of the Divine Will, leading to a heart filled with happiness regardless of the outward condition one may be in. And a soul at peace from being illuminated by the rich perception at all times of the entire Creation being the manifestation of Allah’s Attributes.