In this teaching Sheikh Nazim recounts an encounter in Tripoli: a senior Lebanese official, together with his brother who lives in America, visited the headquarters of a well-known Jewish firm. The host received them warmly, offered generous hospitality and, once their business was concluded, slipped a handful of dollars into a small box for the visitors. As they were leaving, he added: “Perhaps you will be followed,” hinting that such generosity might carry hidden expectations.
Sheikh Nazim invites us to look beyond the outward appearance of gifts and ask what intention lies behind them. True sadaqa springs from pure compassion, not from a wish to create hidden obligations or influence. The quiet warning reminds seekers to keep clarity and honesty in every transaction – in worldly affairs and in the inner covenant we hold with the Divine.
May this story encourage us to examine our motives when kindness is offered, to accept generosity with humility, and to stay watchful that no outside help turns us from the path of divine love. For further teachings, visit our Community page.
