The Supreme Aid Against the Crusades: Shaykh ʿAbd al-Qādir al-Jīlānī’s Teachings on Trials and Tribulations (ʾIbtilāʾ)

Alvi, Sayed

Etd

The Supreme Aid Against the Crusades: Shaykh ʿAbd al-Qādir al-Jīlānī’s Teachings on Trials and Tribulations (ʾIbtilāʾ)

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MLA citation style (9th ed.)

Alvi, Sayed. The Supreme Aid Against the Crusades: Shaykh ʿabd Al-qādir Al-jīlānī’s Teachings On Trials and Tribulations (ʾibtilāʾ). ctschicago.ir.atla.com/concern/etds/8e4b5ae8-4dd2-46f6-b203-afd643ac4253?q=2025.

APA citation style (7th ed.)

A. Sayed. The Supreme Aid Against the Crusades: Shaykh ʿAbd al-Qādir al-Jīlānī’s Teachings on Trials and Tribulations (ʾIbtilāʾ). https://ctschicago.ir.atla.com/concern/etds/8e4b5ae8-4dd2-46f6-b203-afd643ac4253?q=2025

Chicago citation style (CMOS 17, author-date)

Alvi, Sayed. The Supreme Aid Against the Crusades: Shaykh ʿabd Al-Qādir Al-Jīlānī’s Teachings On Trials and Tribulations (ʾibtilāʾ). https://ctschicago.ir.atla.com/concern/etds/8e4b5ae8-4dd2-46f6-b203-afd643ac4253?q=2025.

Note: These citations are programmatically generated and may be incomplete.

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Alvi, Sayed

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Abstract

Trials and tribulations (ʾibtilāʾ) are inherent existential issues within human experience, often framed in a negative light. However, within the Islamic tradition, they are approached from a distinct ontological perspective that signifies a different reality and requires a different method of approach. This paper examines the teachings of the Ṣūfī saint and scholar, Shaykh ʿAbd al-Qādir al-Jīlānī, on discerning and addressing ʾibtilāʾ. Shaykh al-Jīlānī’s teachings are contextualized within the historical backdrop of the First Crusade, along with his own personal experiences with trials and tribulations. A theoretical framework for understanding ʾibtilāʾ is then developed through a systematic approach to religion (dīn), followed by an examination of the practical applications and consequences of Shaykh al-Jīlānī’s teachings during the Sunnī revival period, particularly his influence on responses to the Crusades. Shaykh al-Jīlānī’s teachings instilled resilience in his followers, encouraging them to confront challenges while striving toward higher spiritual objectives centered on seeking God. Widely recognized by his title al-Ghawth al-Aʿaẓam (The Supreme Helper), his sublime spiritual influence continues to aid those navigating their own trials and tribulations.

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