This anecdote about Hazrat Ibrahim bin Adham (may God have mercy on him) provides profound insights into the significance of early to bed and early to rise, using a fascinating comparison between goats and dogs to illustrate the concept of blessing (barakah). According to the story, goats are considered blessed because they sleep early and wake up before dawn, a time revered as sacred and imbued with divine mercy. In contrast, dogs, which do not adhere to this pattern, are not regarded as blessed in the same way.
The Wisdom of Hazrat Ibrahim bin Adham
Hazrat Ibrahim bin Adham, a renowned Sufi saint, often shared wisdom through simple yet powerful analogies. In this particular story, a person approached him, lamenting the perceived lack of blessings in modern times. Ibrahim bin Adham responded by asking whether the person saw more dogs or goats. When the person replied that they saw more goats, Ibrahim bin Adham explained that despite many goats being slaughtered daily, their numbers do not seem to decrease—a sign of barakah. He attributed this to their habit of sleeping early and waking before dawn.
Critique of Modern Habits
The elder's analogy extends to a critique of contemporary lifestyles. Many people today stay up late into the night engaged in unproductive activities such as chatting, watching TV shows and movies, or scrolling through social media. These habits often lead to missing the early morning prayers (Fajr), which are considered crucial in Islamic tradition for attracting divine blessings. Ibrahim bin Adham's message suggests that these modern habits result in a lack of barakah, impacting various aspects of life, including wealth, children, and overall well-being.
The Spiritual and Practical Benefits of Early Rising
Waking up early has been advocated across various cultures and traditions, often linked to increased productivity, better mental health, and spiritual growth. In Islamic teachings, the early morning hours, especially the time before Fajr prayer, are seen as particularly auspicious. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and seeking divine mercy and guidance. By aligning one’s lifestyle with these spiritual practices, individuals can cultivate a sense of peace, purpose, and blessings in their lives.
