Comprehensive Definition
Majzūb (مجذوب) refers to a person who has been spiritually attracted or drawn to God, bypassing traditional Ṣūfī stages of development. Such individuals attain profound spiritual states, typically experienced only through significant spiritual discipline, solely through Divine Will.
Etymology
The term Majzūb originates from the Arabic root “ج ذ ب” (jadhaba), which means “to attract” or “to draw.” The word “majzūb” is thus literally translated as “attracted” or “drawn,” signifying an individual irresistibly drawn towards divine presence.
Background and Cultural Differences
In Ṣūfīsm, a Majzūb is unique as they attain lofty spiritual realizations without the painstaking rites of passage typical in conventional Ṣūfī paths. This differs across cultures; some regard them as chosen, revered figures, while others may view them with a degree of wariness owing to their unconventional spirituality.
Synonyms
- Muried (مريد): A Ṣūfī disciple, though traditionally not equivalent as it implies a seeker through disciplined efforts.
- Wali (ولي): Meaning ‘saint’, sometimes used interchangeably but generally denotes advanced, diligent devotees.
Antonyms
- Salik (سالك): Refers to one who takes the spiritual path through conventional, regimented stages.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Iḥsān (إحسان): Literally “perfection” or “excellence,” it refers to the process of attaining spiritual and moral excellence.
- Tarīqah (طريقة): The Ṣūfī path or spiritual way.
- Dhikr (ذكر): Remembering or mentioning God, a central practice in Ṣūfīsm.
Exciting Facts
- Natural State: Majzūbs are sometimes considered naturally inclined towards this heightened connection, having innate spiritual tendencies.
- Varied Personality: Majzūbs may display eccentric or socially unconventional behavior, being deeply absorbed in mystical states.
- Historical Figures: Notable Ṣūfīs like Rabi’a al-Adawiyya have been described as possessing traits of a Majzūb.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “In the quest for God, there are Majzūbs whom the Almighty attracts towards Him without the labor of accordance to the path.” — ʿAbdu ʾr-Razzāq
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Mystics of Islam” by Reynold A. Nicholson - Understanding Ṣūfī terms and concepts.
- “Ṣūfīsm: The Transformation of the Heart” by Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee - Examining spiritual paths in Ṣūfī tradition.
- “Fear and Trembling and the Sickness Unto Death” by Søren Kierkegaard - While not a Ṣūfī work, it explores existential and divine attraction themes.
Quizzes
Exploring the enigmatic phenomenon of divine attraction in Majzūb can transform our understanding of spiritual growth and divine connection. Through love and devotion, may we all find our pathways, structured or providential, to the Divine.
Authored by Dr. Nadim El-Sarai on October 4, 2023.
