Ali Naki is a true Sufi troubadour, bringing the fragrance of Ashk (divine, spiritual love) to circles of seekers throughout Anatolia. We met him first a few years ago when he appeared at a "meshk" (an evening of ilahis and whirling) we had organized near Fethiye during one of our Turkey trips. This is his [...]
I remember vividly my first impression of Asad Ali as he opened the door of his home. This “Arab ascetic” was dressed in a stylish white suit and greeted us with a broad smile and a flamboyant “Salaam! Salaam!” We were about to enter a new world of cultivated meaning, high conversation, and spiritual refinement. It is said that the high art of the Arab is rhetoric, and in Damascus, we witnessed a love of language and mystical discourse greater than anything we had so far experienced.
1937-2026
On February 6 we received word that our beloved mentor, guide, and inspiration, Dr. Asad Ali had passed away. This spiritual friendship began in 1989 when, by an extraordinary set of circumstances, Camille and I were invited to travel to Damascus to meet this great friend of God, scholar, and literary figure.
An offering heart to heart from Camille, in support of the soul journey during these challenging times.
"The one in whom poverty is complete is the one in whom God appears" ~Shams of Tabriz
"O Prophet, indeed We have sent you as a witness (Shahid) and a bringer of good tidings (Basheer) and a warner (Nazeer). And one who invites to Allah (Daee) , by His permission, and an illuminating lamp (Sirajan Munira)" [Al-Ahzab 33:45-46]. “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day must either speak good or remain silent” (al-Bukhari, Muslim) [...]
From The Knowing Heart The role of a Sufi teacher in modern culture is analagous to an athletic coach who would like to train people to develop their abilities to an Olympic level. He would have been educated for this and have the appropriate degree. Without necessarily being the greatest athlete himself, he would be [...]
Shaikh Kabir's selections from Rumi's Urs celebration held Dec 15th, includes video
Camille Helminski reflects on the example of Hazrati Maryam in keeping God as our companion in every state
Translations from the Mathnawi, by Kabir Helminski, shared in today's sohbet (6 October, 2024). Includes a video recording of the session.