4 Quotes & Sayings By Rabia Aladawiyya

Rabia al-Adawiyya (died 901) was an Arab mystic, Sufi Saint. She was born in Basra, Iraq, and was the first woman to deliver sermons to an audience of men. She was also the first woman to write a book on mystical theology (Rasa’il), which she completed in the year 801. Her work is based on Hasan al-Basri's statements on "Mysticism" Read more

She lived during the time of the Abbasid Caliphate, which lasted from 750-1258 C.E.

1
In love, nothing exists between heart and heart. Speech is born out of longing, True description from the real taste. The one who tastes, knows;the one who explains, lies. How can you describe the true form of SomethingIn whose presence you are blotted out? And in whose being you still exist? And who lives as a sign for your journey? Rabia AlAdawiyya
2
I have made You the companion of my heart. But my body is available to those who desire its company, And my body is friendly toward its guest, But the Beloved of my heart is the guest of my soul.  Rabia AlAdawiyya
3
I have two ways of loving You: A selfish one And another way that is worthy of You. In my selfish love, I remember You and You alone. In that other love, You lift the veil And let me feast my eyes on Your living face. Rabia AlAdawiyya