A Study of the Reality of Proximity to God in Islam

Salvation and spiritual perfection are major issues about man. In view of Islam, salvation is proximity to the Almighty God. It is an axiological proximity via spiritual journey, abiding by Sharia law, and expressed by such words as “fowz” (victory), “falah” (salvation), “Ind” (near), and “liqa” (countenance) in Arabic lexicography. The key questions in this connection are: What is the meaning and nature of proximity? What happens when those in spiritual journey become nearest to God? Do they experience a real and perfect evolution or they are only entitled to be nearest ones to God? What are the major traits of this proximity? This paper intends to clarify the nature of proximity and its qualities. In Islam, proximity is achieved through spiritual journey and perfection and in realization of proximity, the inborn traits and qualities of man tend to God at the speed of lightening, or at medium or low speed. Then, as a result of internal revolution, he gains pure life and enters the World of Light. Thus proximity is a real, skeptical and acquisitive practice.