THE ATWAL WAY
This consists of observing in abundance Sawm, Salaat, Qiraa’at, Hajj, Jihaad, etc. This is the way of a class of Auliyaa known as the Akh’yaar.
THE AUSAT WAY
In addition to the above acts of Ibaadat is engagement in Mujaahidah, Riyaadhat, elimination of Akhlaaq-e-Zameemah and the acquisition of Akhlaaq-e-Hameedah. The majority of men traveling along the Path of Sulook become Waasil (attain the goal of Divine Proximity) via this second way.
THE AQAL WA AQRAB WAY
This is the way of Ishq (Love). Riyaadhat (spiritual exercises) and mingling with people are suffocating to the Saalik (spiritual traveller) along this path. Zikr, Fikr, Shukr and Shauq are the intellectual occupations of the traveller plodding along the Path of Ishq. The traveller along this Road become Waasil by this method. Purification of the nafs and adornment of the heart and soul are realized by the method of Love. They have no interest in kashf (inspirational revelation of the Auliyaa) and karaamat (miracles of the Auliyaa). They are totally immersed in:
This third way is the way of the class of Auliyaa known as the Shataariyah.