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Rabia Basri

15quotes

Rabia Basri: A 13th-Century Sufi Poet and Mystic


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Full Name and Common Aliases


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Rabia al-Adawiyya (also known as Rabi'a Al Adawiyah) is the most well-known and revered name associated with this enigmatic figure. Her full name, Rabia bint Ka'b, was often overshadowed by her mystical nickname, "The Great Lover of God".

Birth and Death Dates


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Rabia Basri's exact birthdate is unknown, but historians estimate it to be around 717 CE in the city of Basra, which is now part of modern-day Iraq. Her death date is also uncertain, with estimates ranging from 801-813 CE.

Nationality and Profession(s)


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Rabia was a Sufi mystic and poet who traversed the vast expanse of the Islamic world during her lifetime. She traveled extensively throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and Spain, spreading her message of love and devotion to God.

Early Life and Background


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Growing up in Basra, Rabia was born into a humble family of Arab origin. Her early life was marked by tragedy when she lost her father at a young age. This event is said to have driven her deep into introspection and spiritual seeking. She spent most of her youth wandering the deserts, forests, and cities, searching for meaning and connection with the divine.

Major Accomplishments


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Rabia's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to spiritual growth. Her incredible journey took her from being an ordinary woman to becoming one of the most revered Sufi mystics in history. Some of her notable accomplishments include:

Developing a profound understanding of Islamic theology and spirituality
 Composing devotional poetry that captured the essence of love for God
Establishing herself as a spiritual guide and mentor to numerous individuals seeking enlightenment

Notable Works or Actions


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Rabia's most enduring legacy lies in her writings, which were compiled by her followers after her passing. Her poems are characterized by their passion, depth, and poetic beauty. Some of the most notable works attributed to Rabia include:

Poems on Love and Devotion: These poems showcase her profound understanding of love for God and its transformative power.
Spiritual Discourses: Her sermons, though not explicitly documented in written form, are said to have captivated audiences with their insight and compassion.

Impact and Legacy


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Rabia's influence on Islamic mysticism is unparalleled. Her poetic works continue to inspire generations of spiritual seekers worldwide. The following aspects highlight the profound impact she has had:

Emphasis on Love: Rabia's teachings emphasize the importance of love as a means to connect with God, rather than mere devotion or obedience.
* Empowerment of Women: She broke free from societal norms and expectations by pursuing her spiritual calling, paving the way for future generations of women in Islamic mysticism.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


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Rabia Basri's enduring legacy is rooted in several factors:

1. Pioneering Spirituality: Her emphasis on love as a means to connect with God revolutionized the field of Islamic mysticism.
2. Empowering Women: By pursuing her spiritual calling despite societal norms, she empowered women to explore their own mystical pursuits.
3. Timeless Poetry: Her poems continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their profound insights and poetic beauty.

In conclusion, Rabia Basri's remarkable life serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and devotion. As a spiritual guide, poet, and mystic, she left behind an indelible mark on Islamic history, inspiring countless individuals to explore the depths of spirituality.

Quotes by Rabia Basri

O Beloved of Hearts, I beseech only You. Have pity this day on those who turn to You. My Hope, my Rest, my Delight, this heart can love none other but You.
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O Beloved of Hearts, I beseech only You. Have pity this day on those who turn to You. My Hope, my Rest, my Delight, this heart can love none other but You.
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He does not refuse sustenance to the one who speaks ill of Him. How then could He refuse sustenance to the one whose soul is over flowing with love for Him?
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He does not refuse sustenance to the one who speaks ill of Him. How then could He refuse sustenance to the one whose soul is over flowing with love for Him?
RB
Since no one really knows anything about God, those who think they do are just troublemakers.
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Since no one really knows anything about God, those who think they do are just troublemakers.
RB
I will not serve Allah like a laborer, in expectation of my wages.
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I will not serve Allah like a laborer, in expectation of my wages.
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O my Lord, whatever share of this world You have bestowed on me, bestow it to my enemies, and whatever share of the next world You have for me, give it to my friends. You are enough for me.
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O my Lord, whatever share of this world You have bestowed on me, bestow it to my enemies, and whatever share of the next world You have for me, give it to my friends. You are enough for me.
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You know of the how, but I know of the how-less.
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You know of the how, but I know of the how-less.
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May Allah steal from you All that steals you from Him.
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May Allah steal from you All that steals you from Him.
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Great doubt will eventually lead to great awakening.
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Great doubt will eventually lead to great awakening.
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O God! if I worship Thee in fear of Hell, burn me in Hell; and if I worship Thee in hope of Paradise, exclude me from Paradise; but if I worship Thee for Thine own sake, withhold not thine everlasting beauty.
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O God! if I worship Thee in fear of Hell, burn me in Hell; and if I worship Thee in hope of Paradise, exclude me from Paradise; but if I worship Thee for Thine own sake, withhold not thine everlasting beauty.
RB
How many gifts and graces You have given me! How many favors You have fed me from your hand! I look for your love in all directions, then suddenly its blessing burns in me.
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How many gifts and graces You have given me! How many favors You have fed me from your hand! I look for your love in all directions, then suddenly its blessing burns in me.
RB
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