Sultan Bahu’s Mystical Teachings from Ain ul Faqr: Guiding Track for Contemporary Educational Leaders

Abstract

In Punjab province, scholars like Sultan Bahu illuminated the path of knowledge, guiding people from disbelief to enlightenment. Born into a devout family, Sultan Bahu authored around 140 books, prioritizing the Quran, Sunnah, and Shariat while advocating for a harmony between words and actions. This qualitative study focuses on his Persian work, “Ain-ul-Faqr,” analyzing Sultan Bahu’s spiritual journey. The findings reveal four stages of spiritual development—Shariat, Tareeqat, Haqeeqat, and Marifat—guided by a Murshid. The study categorizes individuals into three types: ignorant, scholars and Faqeers, based on their spiritual pursuits. The findings from Sultan Bahu's teachings have significant implications for contemporary educational leadership. The integration of spirituality into leadership practices fosters a holistic approach to education by emphasizing the development of the whole person-mind, body, emotions, and spirit. Sultan Bahu’s teachings provide invaluable guidance for contemporary educational leaders, encouraging them to move beyond conventional frameworks and embrace spiritual principles that nurture inner growth and ethical conduct. By incorporating these principles, educational leaders become more responsive and supportive, creating inclusive environments that empower both students and educators. This spiritual infusion shifts the educational paradigm toward cultivating not only intellectual abilities but also moral character, emotional well-being, and spiritual awareness. Consequently, leaders who embody Sultan Bahu’s vision promote equity, compassion, and social justice, fostering harmony and unlocking the inherent potential within their communities.