The Bowl of Saki Commentary

That is to say, Ilm is knowledge and knowledge is nothing but Ilm. Worldly knowledge is symbolical-the application of names to processes. But understanding of the processes requires a subtle union with them. Naming a thing does not bring knowledge of it. One can distinguish electricity from magnetism and light, but what is electricity? What is magnetism? What is light? We know only so far as our senses tell us or as far as our limited mind has opportunity to convey some idea.

Yet from a certain point of view, there is a great reality in electricity, in magnetism, and in light beyond their phenomenal appearance and even beyond nominal conception. There is a reality that can be experienced in Zikr, where the three are one. A person will then know, without always being able to explain, that electricity, magnetism, and light are certain aspects of life which appear more clearly when seen in the mineral (or chemical) world. They are present in vital processes, though more hidden. And when we come to humanity we observe other forms of magnetic behavior closely interwoven with the personality. This shows that true magnetism is connected with life.

Above and beyond the sphere of mind is Ishk, the Universal Subtle Energy which is what we call Love. Comprehension of Ishk is Ilm, but neither Ishk nor Ilm is possible without union with the Supreme Being, at least in the form included in Darood. That union is still possible in name and form, for Baqa, or awakening to the real self, is the goal of all. That is to say, the expression of the Divine Light and Love awakens in and through our personalities. This brings all knowledge and all gifts.