Eight Precepts of Khwaja Abdubalik Gudjduvani

Abu Hashim Madani, the Teacher of Hazrat Inayat Khan often said: "There is only one virtue and one sin for a soul on the path. Virtue when he is conscious of God, sin when he is not." This saying is reflected in the Eight Precepts of Khwaja Abdubalik Gudjduvani (d. 1220), a Naqshbandi sheikh who was considered to be the the Grand Master of the Inner Circle of the Masters of his time.

1. Hush der dem

Be present at every breath. Do not let your attention wander for the duration of a single breath. Remember yourself always and in all situations.

2. Nazar ber kadem

Keep your intention before you at every step you take. You wish for freedom and you must never forget it.

3. Safar der vatan

Your journey is towards your homeland, Remember that you are traveling from the world of appearances to the World of Reality.

4. Halvat der endjuman

In all your outward activity remain inwardly free. Learn not to identify yourself with anything whatsoever.

5. Yad gerd

Remember your Friend, i.e. God. Let the prayer (zikr) of your tongue be the prayer of your heart (q'alb).

6. Baz gasht

Return to God. No aim but to attain Reality.

7. Nigah dasht

Struggle with all alien thoughts. Keep your mind on what you are doing whether outwardly or inwardly.

8. Yad dasht

Be constantly aware of the quality of the Divine Presence. Become used to recognizing the Presence of God in your heart.