An examination of the factors involved in the emergence of some criticisms of Abu Sa'id Abul-Khair's asceticism from the perspective of power (based on the Secrets of Monotheism by Muhammad ibn Munawar)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate, Faculty of Letters, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran

2 Corresponding Author, Associate Professor, Department of Persian Language and Literature, Faculty of Letters, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran.

10.22103/jll.2026.25462.3199

Abstract

Purpose: Considering the principles of Sufism, which are founded upon asceticism and the renunciation of the instruments of power, the enjoyment of worldly blessings by Sufis appears problematic. However, Sufis like Abu Saʿid Abu’l-Khayr, while performing ascetic practices, attained considerable power and created the conditions for themselves and their followers to benefit from worldly advantages. The coexistence of ascetic conduct and the enjoyment of worldly blessings among Sufis has given rise to a recurrent form of criticism in Persian literature, often described as a discrepancy between outward appearance and inward reality. Identifying the factors, contextual conditions, and various dimensions underlying the emergence of such criticisms from the perspective of power is a principal objective, the achievement of which may illuminate the possible motivations behind ascetic practices, the mechanisms by which power is acquired through such practices, and the governing principles underlying this process.
Method and Research: This study employed a descriptive-analytical method. After outlining the theoretical foundations related to power and asceticism, the principal criticisms directed at the sheikh and his followers were presented. Subsequently, the factors, contextual conditions, and processes contributing to the emergence of these criticisms were analyzed from the perspective of power.
Findings and Conclusions: In accordance with the foundations of Sufism and in emulation of divine saints and Sufi masters, the sheikh engaged in ascetic practices. However, after attaining various forms of legitimacy among his followers, he did not employ Malamati (self-blaming) practices to preserve asceticism as a spiritual form of power. Instead, he facilitated the acquisition of power and worldly blessings for himself and his followers. Particularly in his acts of public hospitality, the sheikh prioritized gaining popular acclaim and spiritual authority over strict adherence to Sufi principles. Consequently, he and his followers were exposed to accusations of power-seeking and worldliness.
Conclusions: The root of these criticisms lies in the perception of Abu Sa‘id’s miraculous acts as manifestations of worldly ambition and the desire for power, contradicting the core ascetic ideals of Sufism.

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