The Language of Love
Recollection of the Most Beautiful Names of God comprises remedies for the diseases of hearts and tools for the wayfarers to the presence of the teacher of hidden things. Remedies are not to be used except for the diseases which that name cures. When, for example, the name “the Giver” (al-Mu‘ti) is helpful for a particular disease of the heart, then the name “the Provider” (al-Nafi‘) is not desirable in this case and so forth. The principle is that the heart of the one who recollects a dhikr which has an intelligible meaning will be influenced by that meaning… The recollection of the divine name “the Sincere” (al-Sadiq) bestows upon the veiled one a sincere tongue, upon the Sufi a sincere heart, and upon the Gnostic realization. The divine name “the Guide” (al-Hadi) is useful in seclusion. It is useful when there is a scattering and distraction, which it removes. One who seeks God’s help but does not see the external form of the helper should know that his persistence in seeking help is what he asked for… The divine name “the Beneficent” (al-Muhsin) is right for the ordinary person who wishes to attain the station of trust in God. This dhikr brings about intimacy and hastens illumination and is a remedy for the aspirant who is fearful of the world of majesty. The divine name “the Knower” (al-‘Alîm) when recited awakens from heedlessness and makes the heart present with the Lord. It teaches the people of beauty manners in meditation and the attainment of intimacy, and the people of the world of majesty are renewed in awe and fear.12
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