Wajd
Definition
Wajd — from the root meaning 'to find' — is the intense, overwhelmingly felt spiritual state that sometimes arises in moments of deep God-consciousness: a surge of love, longing, awe, or joy so powerful that the ordinary functioning of the mind is temporarily suspended. Al-Ghazali addresses wajd with characteristic nuance: he neither dismisses it as hysteria nor valorizes it as the goal. Genuine wajd is a real spiritual experience, a grace given in moments of particular divine nearness. But it is not a reliable measure of one's spiritual station — many people of lower station experience intense wajd while people of the highest station are characterized by a quiet, stable, profound peace rather than dramatic intensity.
As understood in the classical tradition of Imam al-Ghazali and the scholars of his school.
How the scholars use Wajd.
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"The First Degree: A transient wajd that awakens the witness of hearing. Chapter: The author of المَنَازِل said: The concept of 'wajd' refers to a flame that ignites from witnessing a fleeting disturbance of the heart. Since 'wujud' (existence) is considered higher than 'wajd', the cause of 'wajd' is seen as a temporary vision, while 'wujud' is the actual attainment of something, as will be explained."
— Ibn al-Qayyim, Volume Three
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"his eating due to necessity, and his speech due to need. Some have said: "The ultimate end of the will is to point towards اللّٰه, and to find Him with the indication." It was said to him: "And where does the indication encompass Him?" He replied: "To find اللّٰه without indication." This is a profound statement. There are three levels: The highest is to find اللّٰه at all times, without the need for indication from oneself or others."
— Ibn al-Qayyim, Volume Two
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"However, when they do not attain their beloved, it results in anxiety, thus making it a disturbing flame. It is said that 'wajd' is of three levels. The first level is a transient 'wajd' that awakens the witness of hearing, sight, or thought, leaving an impact on the person or not. The term "transient 'wajd'" implies that it is renewed and not permanent."
— Ibn al-Qayyim, Volume Three
Appears in
2 books in the library
Hear the term in context.
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