The need of a Sheikh

Sometimes, a person is in a situation where it is difficult to take a decision. He may be a great intellectual, but there are times when he is so troubled that he does not know the direction that he must take. In such a situation, he needs someone, who is sincere and who has some experience in life, who will be able to advise him and help him to come out of his dilemma.

In regards to Deen also, from time to time, a person finds himself in such situations, where he needs someone who can help him overcome his problems. This person is called a Sheikh. In English, he is termed as a spiritual guide. This Sheikh must be a sincere person who has a good knowledge of Deen and there is nothing reproachable regarding his behaviour in Deen. If anyone has got such a person as a guide, he must be very grateful to Allah Ta’ala because very rarely does a person receive such a precious gift.

[English version of "La nécessité ene Sheikh" – Al Jamiat – Vol.3 No.14]