Futuwwa (Spiritual Chivalry)

In this next session, Skaykh Yahya discusses two more character traits of Futuwwa mentioned in Imam Muhammad ibn al-Husayn al Sulami’s (d. 412 AH, 1034 CE) book, Kitab al-Futuwwa: (1) to break a nonobligatory fast to make your brother or sister happy; and (2) to bring happiness and joy in your relationships with others. With respect to breaking a nonobligatory fast, Shaykh Yahya explains the larger significance of this trait and why service to others is the quickest way to receive spiritual openings. He also begins the session with a beautiful discussion on ihsan (beautiful character) using a system of trees as a metaphor. Subscribe to Futuwwa (Spiritual Chivalry) [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s]

In his book Kitab al-Futuwwa, Imam Muhammad ibn al-Husayn al Sulami (d. 412 AH, 1034 CE) states that it is from Futuwwa (spiritual chivalry) to view what remains from one’s wealth as what was spent in charity and not what was withheld. Shaykh Yayha mentions that this great character trait derives from a faith-based perspective and is found in all of the Prophets, starting with the Prophet Adam, alayhi as-salaam. Several examples from the Qur’an and Hadith are mentioned, providing a clear and illuminating explanation. Subscribe to Futuwwa (Spiritual Chivalry) [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s]

The next trait of Futuwwa discussed in Imam Muhammad ibn al-Husayn al Sulami’s (d. 412 AH, 1034 CE) book, Kitab al-Futuwwa, is to begin eating only after everyone else has started eating. Although this trait may appear to be small and easy, Shaykh Yahya explains why you cannot have a leader without this fundamental etiquette. He then discusses the meaning of leadership with examples from the Qu’ran and Hadith. Additionally, a story about a righteous scholar, a rope, and a stone is told, providing a beautiful lesson on consistency. Subscribe to Futuwwa (Spiritual Chivalry) [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s]

In this session on Futuwwa based on Imam Muhammad ibn al-Husayn al Sulami’s (d. 412 AH, 1034 CE) book, Kitab al-Futuwwa, Shaykh Yahya continues with the next great trait of spiritual chivalry: showing good hospitality and honoring guests. He mentions the story of what Sayyida Khadijah, radi allahu anha, said to comfort the Prophet, sallallahu alaihi wa sallam, after he received his first revelation: specifically, the five traits that the Prophet (saas) possessed, including receiving guests hospitably. Shaykh Yahya also explains how the prophetic methodology can be found in these five traits. Short discussions on why prayer is our “primary occupation” and why the entire earth is a masjid are also provided. Subscribe to Futuwwa (Spiritual Chivalry) [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s]

This next session on Futuwwa based on Imam Muhammad ibn al-Husayn al Sulami’s (d. 412 AH, 1034 CE) book, Kitab al-Futuwwa, states that the real work is with rectifying one’s inner state. As part of the discussion, Shaykh Yahya mentions that when the Prophet, sallallahu alaihi wa sallam, taught, he sometimes wore nice clothes and sometimes wore simple clothes, and Shaykh Yahya discusses the wisdom behind that. Also, two examples from the life of Muhammad Ali are related which show the strength of his inner character and explain why so many people loved him. Subscribe to Futuwwa (Spiritual Chivalry) [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1554999687790s]