True asceticism (Faqr) is the highest state of self-sufficiency, contentment, and dignity, where a person places complete trust in God and becomes independent of worldly supports. This is the same Faqr found in Iqbal’s philosophy of Khudi(selfhood), which does not bow before rulers but surrenders the heart to God’s sovereignty. Such asceticism elevates a dervish above kings, for he depends on no one, while the world, in turn, depends on his spiritual blessings.
Iqbal beautifully describes this Faqr:
“فقیر راہِ خدا مست و بے نیاز بُود
کہ در جہاں زِ حقیقت غنی و ناز بُود
“The true ascetic, devoted to the path of God, is intoxicated and free,
For in this world, he is enriched by truth and stands above all need.”
Altaf Choudhry
26.02.2025
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