Introduction to the Chishti Sufi Lessons: Fatiha Khani, Thawab-e-Risani, Salawat (Darood) Recitation, and Muraqaba

The Chishti Sufi Order is a spiritual branch of Islam that emphasizes purification of the heart, spiritual development, and attaining closeness to Allah. This path provides guidance and training for saliks (spiritual seekers) on their journey toward divine proximity. It is based on love for Allah, following the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and service to humanity.

The Chishti path was primarily established by Imam Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA) and is one of the most prominent streams of Islamic spirituality. Its core objective is to develop a deep spiritual connection with Allah and purify the inner self.

Below is a brief introduction to some foundational lessons (subqs) or spiritual practices in the Chishti Sufi path:

1. Fatiha Khani (فاتحة خوانی)

Fatiha Khani is a practice of reciting the Qur'an, salawat (Darood Sharif), and supplications to seek forgiveness and mercy for the souls of deceased Muslims—especially saints, spiritual guides, and relatives. Various surahs from the Qur'an are recited and their rewards are gifted to the deceased.

Definition and Purpose: Fatiha Khani involves Qur'anic recitation, Darood, and du’a (supplication) with the intention of transferring the spiritual reward (Isal-e-Sawab) to the deceased. It is an important spiritual custom in the Chishti tradition.

Method of Practice: Surahs such as Surah Al-Fatiha, Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas are recited. It begins and ends with Darood Sharif. The names of deceased individuals are mentioned, and supplications are made for their forgiveness and peace.

Importance of Fatiha Khani: It helps bring tranquility to the soul of the deceased, strengthens ties and a sense of responsibility among relatives, and serves as a means of self-purification through remembrance of Allah and Qur’anic recitation.

2. Thawab-e-Risani (ثواب رسانی)

Thawab-e-Risani refers to offering the reward of one’s good deeds—such as Qur’an recitation, Darood, and Tasbeeh—to the souls of deceased individuals. This is considered a highly significant act in the Chishti Sufi order.

Definition and Purpose: Thawab-e-Risani or Isal-e-Sawab is the act of dedicating the reward of one’s religious deeds (like prayer, fasting, Qur’anic recitation, remembrance, charity, etc.) to another Muslim, especially the deceased.

How It’s Done: After performing an act of worship, one specifically says, “O Allah, I present the reward of this Qur’an recitation/remembrance/charity as a gift for the soul of [name of the deceased]. Please accept it.”

Evidence from Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said, “If someone prays or performs an act of reward for the deceased, it benefits them.” (Sahih Muslim)

3. Recitation of Salawat (Darood Sharif)

In the Chishti order, regular recitation of Darood Sharif (salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ) is highly emphasized. It fosters love and spiritual connection with the beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Importance of Darood: Reciting Darood is not just a form of worship but a way to establish a deep spiritual bond with the Prophet ﷺ. It is among the best means of drawing nearer to Allah.

Popular Daroods in Chishti Practice:

• Darood-e-Ibrahimi
• Darood-e-Taj
• Darood-e-Ghausia
• Darood-e-Mukhliseen

Method of Practice: Saliks recite Darood 100, 313, or 1000 times daily at specified times. It is done with full concentration, love, and devotion during the practice of zikr (remembrance).

Virtues: Sins are forgiven, the gates of mercy open, and Allah along with the angels send blessings upon the one who recites Darood.

4. Muraqaba (مراقبة)

Muraqaba is a meditative spiritual practice aimed at self-awareness and experiencing the presence of Allah. In this, a salik (seeker) sits quietly with eyes closed in a peaceful environment and remembers Allah within the heart.

What is Muraqaba?

• Muraqaba is a form of spiritual meditation where the seeker remains silent and still, focusing inwardly on the remembrance of Allah, imagining divine light and sensing spiritual presence. It helps connect to the spiritual realm.

Steps of Muraqaba:

• Sit in a quiet, clean place.
• Close the eyes and perform zikr such as “Allah, Allah” or “Hoo, Hoo.”
• Focus the mind on the thought: Allah is watching me, I am feeling the presence of Allah.
• Remain physically still and immerse deeply into the soul.

Purpose and Benefits:

• Removes spiritual darkness.
• Brings inner peace.
• Creates a sense of closeness to Allah.
• Helps control the nafs (ego/desires).

Conclusion

These lessons of the Chishti Sufi order are not just acts of worship but a complete path for spiritual growth and purification of body, mind, and soul. Through regular practice of Fatiha Khani, Thawab-e-Risani, Darood recitation, and Muraqaba, a salik gradually attains nearness to Allah and progresses on the path toward eternal salvation.

Practicing these under regular discipline and the guidance of a Pir-Murshid (spiritual guide) is the central practice of this spiritual path.