The introductory practices of the Naqshbandi-Mujaddedi order consist of a systematic set of traditional Sufi practices which the student performs at particular times of the day. These practices can be integrated into the student’s normal daily life as he or she continues to live and work in society.
The introductory practices consist of the following:
- a particular kind of meditation (muraqaba) which focuses on the heart centre. There are ten subtle centres of consiousness (latifa, plural: lataif), of which the most important is the heart centre, or qalb. Students usually notice some of the effects of this practise within a short period of time. They may then be given additional practices which continue to develop their spiritual faculties.
- a process called transmission (tawajjiuh), whereby the light that the Shaykh acquired from his own Shaykh is transmitted to the heart of the student. As the student continues his or her strenuous effort, devoting time to the practices, the spark of this light eventually fans into a flame in the heart of the student.
The techniques are given to each student individually by personal consultation with the Shaykh or with one of his appointed representatives. The student is instructed in further practices as he or she progresses. It goes without saying that the effect of putting these teachings into practice can only be experienced.
