Sunna: The criterion

Hakim al-Umma Hadhrat Mawlana Ashraf Ali Thanawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said in regards to selecting a Shaykh for spiritual path:

“The thing to look for in a Shaykh is the proportion of the Sunna of the Holy Prophet (Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him) he has integerated into his actions.

Unveiling of your secrets (makashafat) etc. can be an act of mesmerism. These are under the control of one’s thoughts. (So do not rely on this sign alone.)

The real and major thing to look for is the level of congeniality (munasbat) with Holy Prophet (Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him). And this congeniality should be spontaneous and consistent.”

Husn al-Aziz: Malfoozat e Hakim al-Ummat, volume 17 page 41