Imam Nursi's Stance on the Paths of Sainthood

Abstract

This article examines Imam Bediuzzaman Said Nursi’s stance on the "paths of sainthood (wilāyah)" as presented in the nine illuminations from the ninth section of the twenty-ninth letter in his collection Risale-i Nur. It offers a critical and educational analysis of Sufi paths and sainthood, highlighting Nursi’s view that such spiritual trajectories should serve as means—not ends—for attaining complete servitude to God. Central to Nursi’s approach are the practices of remembrance (dhikr), contemplation (tafakkur), and adherence to the prophetic model. The article also addresses the dangers and deviations that can arise on these paths—such as excessive claims (shathahāt), prioritizing mystical experiences over Sharia, and blurring the lines between inspiration and revelation. Ultimately, Nursi advocates for a balanced, scripture-grounded path rooted in the Qur’anic ascension and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), free from the risks of unrestrained spiritual subjectivity.