O God, Just You and I!: A Reflection on Imam Sajjad's Arafah Supplication
Discovering the profound beauty and wisdom within the words of Imam Sajjad (AS) on the blessed day of Arafah.
As the day of Arafah arrives, many hearts turn to the Arafah Supplication of Imam Husayn (AS), a source of solace and gratitude. However, today, let us explore another luminous supplication, one from Imam Sajjad (AS), found within the pages of Sahifah Sajjadiyyah. This supplication, like that of Imam Husayn (AS), is filled with wonder and beauty, offering a unique perspective on our relationship with the Divine.
Perhaps you are unfamiliar with this supplication, or perhaps you have not yet had the opportunity to delve into its depths. On this blessed day, let us together reflect on some excerpts from the Arafah Supplication of Imam Sajjad (AS):
O God,
Fill my nights with life by keeping me awake therein for worshipping you, solitude so that I may keep a vigil for You, and my exclusive devotion to establishing a closer relationship with You.
This passage speaks to the desire for a deeper connection with God, one that transcends the mundane and fills our nights with purpose and devotion. It is a call to seek solitude and dedicate ourselves to cultivating a closer relationship with the Divine.
O God,
Defend me from whence I know not with a defence through which You protect me.
Here, Imam Sajjad (AS) implores God for protection, not just from the visible threats, but from the unseen and unknown dangers that surround us. It is a recognition of our vulnerability and a plea for divine safeguarding.
O God,
Make me not an abomination for him who takes admonishment and a trial for him who observes.
This is a prayer for guidance and righteousness, asking not to be a source of negativity or a stumbling block for others on their spiritual journey. It is a reminder of the impact our actions can have on those around us.
O God,
Raise me among Your servants. Appoint me not a mockery for Your creatures.
Imam Sajjad (AS) seeks elevation among the righteous servants of God, while also asking not to be a source of ridicule or scorn. It is a humble request for dignity and respect in the eyes of both God and humanity.
O God,
Attend to me in the same way You attend to the people of obedience toward You.
This passage expresses a longing for God's attention and care, similar to that bestowed upon those who are devoted and obedient. It is a desire to be included among the blessed and favoured servants of the Divine.
O God,
Single me out for good, as You single him out who fatigues himself for Your sake alone, and exerts himself for Your good pleasure.
Here, Imam Sajjad (AS) asks to be chosen for goodness, just as those who strive tirelessly for God's sake are chosen. It is a plea to be granted the strength and dedication to pursue actions that are pleasing to the Divine.
O God,
Cast me not away as one who has fallen from Your grace.
This is a heartfelt plea not to be rejected or abandoned by God, a fear of losing divine favour. It is a reminder of the importance of maintaining our connection with the Divine and seeking forgiveness for our shortcomings.
O God,
Make me not an aid to the wrongdoers, Nor their helper in trying to abolish Your book!
Finally, Imam Sajjad (AS) asks not to be an accomplice to injustice or to assist those who seek to undermine God's teachings. It is a commitment to stand against wrongdoing and to uphold the principles of righteousness.
As we reflect on these excerpts from the Arafah Supplication of Imam Sajjad (AS), may we find inspiration and guidance in our own spiritual journeys. May we strive to deepen our connection with the Divine, seek protection from harm, and remain steadfast in our commitment to justice and righteousness.
Source: Ali Reza Panahian