This article delves into the connection between coffee and Islamic traditions, exploring its benefits for worship, the views of scholars and Sufi masters, and its spiritual significance.
Coffee has become an integral part of cultures worldwide, often accompanying casual conversations, important meetings, or moments requiring intense focus. For some, coffee is a daily necessity, even surpassing staple foods. But did you know that coffee has a profound history in Islamic tradition? Is it true that coffee was endorsed by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)?
The History of Coffee in Islamic Tradition
Coffee has long been known in Islamic tradition. Prominent scholars have written about its benefits and virtues. One such scholar, Imam Ibn Hajar, highlighted coffee’s ability to uplift the spirit and facilitate spiritual enlightenment.
القهوة تزيل الهم وتكشف الأسرار الإلهية
"Coffee dispels sorrow and unveils divine secrets." (Imam Ibn Hajar)
The Role of Coffee in Worship
Coffee’s ability to keep one awake made it a cherished companion for worship in Islamic traditions. Sufi practitioners, for instance, often consumed coffee to stay awake for nightly prayers and dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
A notable story involves Sheikh Abul Hasan ash-Shadhili, who is said to have received divine inspiration from Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to prepare coffee from roasted beans, enhancing his spiritual stamina.
Prophet Muhammad’s Guidance on Coffee
A fascinating anecdote about coffee comes from as-Sayyid Ahmad bin Ali Bahr al-Qadimi. He reported encountering Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in a wakeful state and receiving three hadiths, one of which praised coffee:
ما دام ريح البن موجود في فم العبد، يستغفر له الملائكة
"As long as the aroma of coffee lingers in a person’s mouth, the angels seek forgiveness for them."
Scholars’ Perspectives on Coffee
Beyond its spiritual benefits, coffee has other noteworthy advantages. Al-Habib Abu Bakr bin Abdullah al-Atthas remarked that spaces used for brewing coffee are free from the presence of jinn, highlighting coffee’s unique significance in daily life.
Coffee as a Spiritual Companion
As illustrated above, coffee is not merely a casual beverage. It can inspire devotion and enhance one’s focus in worship when consumed with the right intention. This transforms a simple cup of coffee into an act of drawing closer to Allah. Wallahu a’lam (Allah knows best).
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