Section One: The Esoteric Factions

Discussing the esoteric factions is a complex and intricate topic because of the multitude of factions and paths. Some of these are true, while others are purely false—deviant paths, in reality, whose foundations were built to block the way to the Lord and prevent the servant from reaching Him. They took much from the truth but added a little falsehood. Ultimately, their path became an innovation, their law an invention, and a part of the satanic scheme to "surely mislead them all."

As for the people of truth, they have concealed honey through their knowledge of the Eternal, while outwardly showing weakness and frailty. A disbeliever might see what emerges from them as mere waste, when in fact it is a medicine and a cure. As the Almighty said: {From their bellies comes a drink of various colors in which there is healing for people. Indeed, in that is a sign for a people who give thought.} ¹

The true people of the esoteric path are those whom our master Zayn al-Abidin described, may his glory be exalted, when he said: "My God, make us among those in whose hearts the trees of longing for You are firmly rooted; whose hearts are completely seized by the fervor of Your love. They take shelter in the nests of contemplation; they roam in the gardens of proximity and revelation. From the basins of love, they drink with the cup of intimacy; they arrive at the springs of purity. The veil has been lifted from their eyes; the darkness of doubt has cleared from their beliefs. The disturbance of uncertainty has been banished from their hearts and their inmost selves. Their chests have expanded with the realization of true knowledge. Their aspirations have soared, driven by the pursuit of happiness through asceticism. Their drink from the spring of devotion is sweet; their inner life is pleasant in the assembly of intimacy. Their path is secure in the abode of fear. Their souls are at peace by returning to the Lord of lords. Their spirits are certain of triumph and success. Their eyes are content with the vision of their Beloved. Their stability is secured by attaining their goal and reaching their hope. Their trade in selling this world for the hereafter has been profitable." ²