Rabiah al-Adawiyah (d. 801), also known as Rabia al-Basri, was a preeminent female mystic originally from Basra, who became one of the most celebrated figures in Islamic mysticism.
Definition and Meaning
Rabiah introduced the doctrine of selfless love (Ishq Haqiqi) into Sufism, emphasizing that true worship of Allah should stem from profound love rather than the fear of Hell or the promise of Heaven. Her unique focus on attitude and spiritual motivation spurred the view that heartfelt devotion to God’s love was higher than merely following rituals.
Etymology and Background
Rabiah is an Arabic name (رابعة), which means “fourth” in the context of her being the fourth daughter in her family. Al-Adawiyah signifies her affiliation with the Banu Adi tribe.
Historical Facts and Dates
Rabiah was born in 714 C.E. and passed away in 801 C.E. She lived a life of asceticism, renouncing all worldly ties. Although she grew up under challenging circumstances following liberation from slavery, her spiritual fervor and theological insights earned her immense respect and reverence.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
The cultural backdrop of her time was heavily patriarchal, yet Rabiah’s prominence as a mystical poet and devout worshiper garnered significant scholarly interest and respect even in male circles. While women’s roles were otherwise limited, her devotion and teachings have been universally celebrated across the Muslim world and revered in various Sufi orders.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: Sufi Saint, Mystic Poet, Spiritual Mentor
- Antonyms: Materialist, Secularist
- Related Terms:
- Sufism: Islamic mysticism focusing on the inward search for God and shunning materialism.
- Asceticism: The practice of severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence.
- Ishq Haqiqi: The love for the Divine or true love.
- Zuhd: Renunciation and detachment from worldly pleasures.
Exciting Facts
- Rabiah was said to have had miracles attributed to her, including healing the sick.
- Legends recount her declaring that she desired to burn Hell and extinguish Heaven with her two torches, symbolizing the quest for divine love untainted by fear or reward.
- Renowned for her poetry and songs, which passionately expressed her longing for union with God.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“Love the God, for it is Him who is constant in the transient world.” — Rabiah al-Adawiyah
“Her whole supplication was in love and longing: that burning love of hers would in itself suffice.” — Farid Ud-Din Attar
Further Reading and References
- “Rabia the Mystic and Her Fellow-Saints in Islam” by Margaret Smith.
- “Sufi Women” by Abdo A. Elkholy.
- “Muslim Saints and Mystics: Episodes from the Tadhkirat al-Auliya (Memorial of the Saints)” by Farid ud-Din Attar (translated by A. J. Arberry).
Farewell Thought
May Rabiah al-Adawiyah’s profound teachings inspire us to seek a higher spiritual plane, where love of the Divine transcends all earthly fears and desires. Her legacy serves as an eternal beacon of spiritual love that redefines true devotion to God.
