Spiritual Formation
In brief: Spiritual formation (tazkiyah) at the Islamic Institute of Advanced Research: adab, dhikr and service in the Naqshbandi Mujaddidi tradition, joined to rigorous scholarship.
Spiritual formation is not an extra at the Institute — it is part of why we exist. Students are encouraged to pair research with regular worship, remembrance and service.
Pillars of formation
Adab
Etiquette with teachers, books and colleagues; honest citation and humility in debate.
Dhikr
Remembrance of Allah and salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ, according to the guidance of the Naqshbandi masters.
Suhbah
Keeping good company and benefiting from the example of righteous people.
Khidmah
Service to family, community and humanity.
Optional guidance
Students who wish may seek guidance in the Naqshbandi Mujaddidi path from Professor Pir Dr. Abaid Ahmad. Participation is voluntary and is not a requirement for academic award.
Related: Chancellor’s message, Sufism and Tasawwuf specialisation.