The famous Sufi sage Baba Saifdar had a disciple named Miri, who constantly complained that Saifdar had not even looked at him since he joined the circle of his disciples.
“Before he accepted me as a student, it was better,” he said, “we communicated as friends, and I enjoyed the benefit of his friendly disposition.
Baba Saifdar knew about his student’s mentality, but during rare meetings with him he did not show it. He preferred to wait until the right opportunity presented itself to clearly explain the meaning of their relationship.
One day, Miri was giving evidence during a trial that was taking place in the open air, and Baba Saifdar happened to be passing by.
Before this, the judge asked the witness:
- So do you remember exactly what you saw the accused steal?
Miri caught the Teacher’s gaze and suddenly, remembering their lessons on recall techniques, involuntarily cried out:
- I remember!
The suspect was immediately convicted based on the testimony of a witness, although he was innocent. Miri took back his words, and he himself was almost convicted of perjury. When he was finally released, Baba told him:
“What happened is an everyday parallel to what can happen in more significant areas. Both praising one's Teachers and complaining about them lead to the most stupid actions. The same results in disrespect for the practical methods of mentors. They have access to what the student does not see.
“I can only hope,” said Miri, “that my example will serve as an object lesson for others and allow them to move forward without repeating the same mistakes.”
That's why this story is called Miri's lesson.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru