SUFI POETRY IN SOMALI

aspirants practice DHKIR by means of formulas and methods

(SULUK) which enable them to conquer their passionate souls
(NUFUS) , The methods used by the shaikhs may vary; how-
ever, there are some basic practices, such as retreat,
night vigils, fasting and silence, which are universally
prescribed to all the aspirants so as to aid them in the
act of Remembrance of God. Referring to the essentiality

of these acts of worship in one of his poems, Sheekh

Caaqib says:

Tanad jeceshihiin waa laga tegiye, waar

tawba keenoo kaca tukada

Taagnida qiyaameen lays tebayn, inay talo

xuntahay taa waa ognee

AlIa toosa eey! AlIa toosa eey~ malag

baynna tirin ee toosa eey

Kuwa tawstaliyo kuwa taamka ahba, tooguu

u leeyee toosa eey

o repent and pray, for you shall depart from

this world which you cherish

We know that the conditions are harsh on the

Day of Resurrection, when people will not re-

cognize each other as they assemble

By God, rise up! By G~d, rise up! For there

are angels who are watching us

Rise up~ For they are empowered to guard the

weak as well as the strong

(Text 10/18-21)

In these linei the shaikh stresses the importance of

repentance and night vigils, while in the following verses,

he warns against garrulity and sleep:

Hebel-Hebel ka badidaan leenahaa, hal

Ilaahay looga hagaagiyey,

Hindisaha dulcedka lagu hayiyo, hadal

badan wax baa ku hagooganey.

Hog cidhiidhiyaa lays hoos dhigiye,

hurdo maa dadow lag a haajirow.

2.6.