By: Djaka Suryadi, PhD*
About the Writer:
Djaka Suryadi is an observer of sharia law and sharia finance. He got Islamic Finance PhD from one of university in Malaysia.
In Indonesia, he is an islamic banker and working for private bank for 28 years, and also to be a lecturer of Islamic law and Islamic finance for 18 years in universities.
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1. Introduction
Sight is not merely a biological function but a reflection of spiritual and intellectual awareness. In physiology, vision involves the retina, optic nerve, and visual cortex. In Sufism, sight symbolizes bashirah — the inner eye that perceives truth beyond appearances.
2.Medical Perspective Medically, vision involves:
- Retina: converts light into electrical signals.
- Optic Nerve: transmits signals to the brain.
- Visual Cortex: interprets images and colors.
Eye disorders like macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy highlight the need for eye care through nutrition and regular checkups.
Modern health psychology also recognizes mental vision — how perception is shaped by emotional states. Practices like mindfulness and positive visualization enhance mental well-being.
3. Sufi Perspective and Al-Azhar Scholars
In Sufism, sight includes both physical and spiritual dimensions. Imam Al-Ghazali wrote:
“The physical eye sees forms, the inner eye sees meanings.”
Sheikh Thantawi of Al-Azhar emphasized tazkiyatun nafs (purification of the soul) to unveil the heart’s vision. Buya Hamka in Tafsir Al-Azhar cited:
“Indeed, it is not the eyes that are blind, but the hearts within the chests.” (Qur’an 22:46)
4. Views of the Four Madhhabs
All four imams agree that sight is a trust:
- Imam Abu Hanifah: stressed guarding the gaze as an act of piety.
- Imam Malik: saw the eye as a gateway to the heart.
- Imam Shafi’i: famously said:
“I complained to Waki’ about my poor memory, he advised me to abandon sin.” - Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal: emphasized lowering the gaze as a form of worship.
5. Qur’an and Sunnah Guidance
Allah says:
“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze…”
(Qur’an 24:30)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The gaze is a poisoned arrow from Satan. Whoever lowers his gaze, Allah grants him the sweetness of faith.” (Reported by Hakim)
6. Conclusion
Sight is a divine gift to be preserved physically and spiritually. The eye is not just a window to the world, but a portal to divine awareness. Guarding our vision means guarding our hearts, minds, and connection to Allah.
Barokalloh fiikum jamiian Aamiin YRA.
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