Konsep Cinta Ilahi dalam Ajaran Tasawuf Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah

The concept of divine love, or *mahabbah ilahi*, occupies a central place in Islamic mysticism, particularly within the teachings of prominent Sufi figures like Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah. Rabi'ah, a renowned female Sufi mystic of the 8th century, is celebrated for her profound insights into the nature of love and her unique approach to experiencing the divine. Her teachings, characterized by a deep emotional connection with God, offer a compelling perspective on the essence of *mahabbah ilahi* and its implications for the spiritual journey. This essay delves into the core tenets of Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah's teachings on divine love, exploring its multifaceted dimensions and its transformative power in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

The Essence of Divine Love in Rabi'ah's Teachings

Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah's understanding of *mahabbah ilahi* is rooted in a profound sense of love that transcends the boundaries of conventional human emotions. She emphasizes that true love for God is not merely a feeling or an act of worship but a state of being, a complete surrender of the self to the divine. This surrender is not driven by fear of punishment or desire for reward but by an overwhelming love for God, a love that seeks nothing in return. Rabi'ah's teachings highlight the purity and selflessness of *mahabbah ilahi*, emphasizing that it is a love that seeks only the pleasure of the beloved, not any personal gain.

The Path to Divine Love: A Journey of Self-Transcendence

Rabi'ah's teachings on *mahabbah ilahi* emphasize the importance of self-transcendence as a crucial step on the path to experiencing divine love. She believed that the ego, with its desires and attachments, acts as a barrier to true love for God. To overcome this barrier, Rabi'ah advocated for a process of self-purification, a stripping away of the self's desires and attachments to make room for the love of God. This process involves a constant struggle against the ego, a relentless pursuit of spiritual refinement, and a deep commitment to seeking the divine presence.

The Transformative Power of Divine Love

Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah's teachings on *mahabbah ilahi* highlight the transformative power of divine love in shaping the individual's spiritual journey. She believed that true love for God leads to a profound transformation of the heart, a shift from a self-centered existence to one that is centered on God. This transformation manifests in a deep sense of humility, a profound gratitude for God's blessings, and a constant yearning for divine union. Rabi'ah's teachings emphasize that *mahabbah ilahi* is not merely a passive emotion but an active force that propels the individual towards spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The Legacy of Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah: A Timeless Message of Love

Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah's teachings on *mahabbah ilahi* continue to resonate with seekers of spiritual truth centuries after her passing. Her unique perspective on divine love, characterized by its purity, selflessness, and transformative power, has left an enduring legacy in the realm of Islamic mysticism. Her teachings offer a compelling framework for understanding the essence of *mahabbah ilahi* and its role in the spiritual journey, inspiring countless individuals to embark on their own quest for divine love.

Rabi'ah al-Adawiyah's teachings on *mahabbah ilahi* offer a profound and inspiring vision of love that transcends the limitations of human experience. Her emphasis on self-transcendence, the transformative power of love, and the pursuit of divine union continues to guide seekers on their spiritual journeys, reminding them of the transformative power of love in shaping the human heart and leading it towards the divine.