There are a number of prescriptions for the wayfarer that will help him or her on the journey towards the Higher. The most important is the companionship of like-minded people and singing the praise of the Creator. If the diwan is approached and sung properly the wayfarer will discover a wide variety of tonics to suit every ill. The effect of people gathering with sincere intention combined with the specific use of sound polishes the heart of the seeker, freeing it to reflect the spark of divine light that is already there.
From time immemorial there has been spiritual singing and reciters of Gods glory. Since the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) songs have also been sung in his praise, exalting and dwelling upon his qualities and virtues as a reminder to everyone.
Numerous masters have written couplets and diwans for different purposes, some to deepen the seekers awareness, some to strengthen their resolve along the path of discipline. In his diwan Shaykh Muhammad Ibn al-Habib has combined acceptance of heart-rending joy which is the fruit of total dependence and reliance on Allah. Within ten or twenty couplets his odes give a complete manual for the journey, for they are replete with instructions.
Transformation in the circle of remembrance (dhikr) is brought about by sincerity and the power inherent in gathering together. The diwan offers us information as well as transformation. It offers us a great deal of worldly strength and a great deal of inner strength. It is a constant reminder.
These songs can be sung collectively or individually. Singing the purpose of life to come to know the Life-Giver then becomes a part of our lives. The purpose of the diwan is to absorb it until you find that the song is singing in you. The singer and song unite. This is a prelude to the taste of universal union of the Creator when He joins the subtle unseen world with the seen, beyond this world.
