Tasawwur al-Shaykh (Visualizing the Shaykh)

Question

What is meant by tasawwur al-shaykh (visualizing the image of the shaykh), and is it permissible or not?

Answer

Some people are overwhelmed by a flood of intrusive thoughts (khawatir) and whispers (wasawis), which disturb even their worship and greatly weaken their faith because of it. When no other remedy works quickly, it is recommended for such people to visualize the image of their spiritual guide, until no intrusive thought or whisper remains and full concentration is attained, so…

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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