Definition§
Hawājis (هواجس) refer to the fleeting, often worldly thoughts that occupy the heart, especially within the context of Sufi mysticism. Sufis regard these thoughts as distractions that disrupt the spiritual journey towards enlightenment and closeness to God.
Etymology§
The term Hawājis finds its roots in the Arabic language. Hawājis (plural) derives from the singular “hājis” (هاجس), which means “thought” or “idea.” The root verb “hawasa” (هاوس) translates to “to think” or “to contemplate.”
Background§
In the Sufi tradition, managing hawājis is a crucial component of spiritual discipline. Sufis strive to clear their hearts of these worldly thoughts to focus solely on divine realities. Such thoughts are viewed as veils keeping the mystic from achieving divine presence (ḥuḍūr).
The great Sufi master, ʿAbdu ʾr-Razzāq, in his dictionary of Sufi terms, emphasizes the importance of recognizing these fleeting thoughts to transcend them, much like distractions that must be overcome to attain oneness with God.
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
Cultural Similarities:§
- Zen Buddhism: The concept of “monkey mind,” referring to the constant chatter and distractions of the mind.
- Christian Mysticism: Practices that focus on contemplation and freeing the mind from mundane thoughts to achieve spiritual clarity.
Cultural Differences:§
- While Sufis focus on the heart as the locus of spiritual and worldly struggles, other traditions often emphasize the mind.
Synonyms§
- Khawaṭir (خواطر): Often used interchangeably with Hawājis in Sufi texts.
- Tafakkur (تفكر): Reflection or contemplation, though not necessarily with the same worldly connotation.
Antonyms§
- Sakīna (سكينة): Tranquility or peace, representing a state free from worldly thoughts.
Related Terms§
- Dhikr (ذكر): Remembrance of God, a practice to counteract hawājis.
- Tajallī (تجلّى): Divine manifestation, a state aimed for when hawājis are transcended.
- Murāqabah (مراقبة): Vigilance or meditation, a Sufi practice to monitor and manage thoughts.
Exciting Facts§
- Many Sufi practices and poetry, such as those by Rumi, often explore the theme of dealing with hawājis to achieve a purer state of being.
- The well-known Sufi allegory “Conference of the Birds” by Attar delves into the distractions, like hawājis, that pilgrims encounter on their spiritual journey.
Quotations from Notable Writers§
“When the worldly thoughts diminish, divine presence swells in the heart.”
— Al-Ghazali
“The heart must be free of the chains of hawājis to fly towards the light.”
— Rumi
Suggested Literature and Other Sources§
- “The Conference of the Birds” by Attar
- “The Alchemy of Happiness” by Al-Ghazali
- “Rumi: Bridge to the Soul” Translated by Coleman Barks
- “Stations of the Elevated” by Nicholas Heer and Jarrah Ali Mufti (Chapters on Murāqabah and Tajallī)
- “Essence of Sufism” by John Baldock
Quizzes§
May this exploration into the concept of Hawājis inspire you to delve deeper into Sufi mysticism, inviting clarity and a transcendent journey in your spiritual quest.
Hassan al-Qabban
October 5, 2023
“Let the fleeting thoughts be like clouds, passing by, yet letting the sun always shine in your heart.”
