FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITORIAL DIRECTOR REACHING FOR HIGHER GROUND Prof Farida Khanam is an author, editor, translator, public speaker and former professor of Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Among her books are ‘A Simple Guide to Islam’ and ‘A Study of World’s Major Religions’. She has translated into English many books authored by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. Currently the chairperson of CPS International, she is a regular contributor of articles to various publications. Prof Khanam has edited Maulana’s English translation of the Quran and has also translated his Urdu commentary on the Quran into English. She can be reached at spiritofislamperiodical@gmail.com W hat is spirituality, or rabbaniyat, as described in the Quran? It is the raising of the human condition to a higher level, where the mind focuses on realities beyond material things, on a life connected with God. A person who gives all attention to worldly matters and remains absorbed in outward appearances is considered material-minded. In contrast, one who rises above material concerns and focuses on higher, non-material realities is regarded as spiritual or godly. Such a person follows the guidance of the Quran: “Be devoted servants of God.” (3: 79) In other words, he lives a life centred on God. Spirituality helps answer fundamental questions: Who am I? What is the purpose of my life? What is the plan of the Creator? A sincere seeker finds true spirituality by discovering thoughtful and rational answers to these questions. In this way, spirituality begins at the level of the mind. It is based on reflection and contemplation, and is therefore an intellectual process. When a person discovers the truth, his life enters a new phase. He begins to shape his personality according to spiritual principles. This intellectual journey has two aspects. The first is to understand