The physical healing methods derive first from the Qur'an and second from the traditions and actions (Sunnah) of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.). Furthermore, there are many men and women of brilliance who have developed the knowledges of physical medicine in the context of Islamic societies and culture. Hakim Ibn Sina, Rhazes, and al-Suyuti are among these medical authorities frequently studied by the Sufis.

There has been little effort made to rationalize or otherwise justify the healing claims presented, except to identify their source and origin, which in the end is Allah (God). In fact, materialistic ideologies and scientific theories can never be sufficient to explain the Divine mysteries. Nonetheless, these practices have proved effective and useful for an untold but very great number of persons and are in current use among the mystics of Islam.

The health practices fall into three categories: (1) those for the body, (2) those for the mind or emotions, and (3) those for the soul. The best and preferred practices are those for the soul. However, a person whose mind and soul are degenerated or weak, may be unable to act upon or be acted upon by a purely spiritual practice. In such a case, herbal remedies, food restrictions such as dieting and fasting, and similar modes are employed. Practices for the heart are also employed favorably in such cases, for they awaken, enliven, and disseminate various divine potentialities throughout the person.

The practices for the soul are highly charged with divine grace and blessings, and if rightly applied, will never fail to bring results. It is a principle of nature that the spiritual always takes precedence over the material.

Wa akhiru da'wana an al-hamdu li-Llahi rabb il-'alamin!
Was-salatu was-salamu 'ala rasulihil-karim!
Rabbana taqabbal minna innaka antas-Sami' ul-'Alim!
Subhana Rabbuka rabb ul-'izzati 'amma yasifun.
Wa salamun 'alal-mursalin.
Wal-hamdu li-Llahi rabb il-'alamin!
Amin!

In the end our claim is that all praise be to Allah, the
Lord of the Worlds, and blessings
and greetings to the Prophet (s.a.w.s.).
Our Lord! Accept from us this duty!
Lo! Thou, only Thou, art the Hearer, the Knower!
Gloried be thy Lord, the Lord of Majesty,
From that which they attribute (unto Him)!
Peace be unto His messengers!
Praise be to Allah the Almighty,
Lord of the Worlds! Be it so!

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