Bismi Llāhi r-Raḥmāni r-Raḥīm
The 17th of Rabi’ al-Awwal marks the blessed Urs of Sayyed Ismail Bin Sayyed Ibnu Jabbarق, a spiritual Master whose presence continues to illuminate Pulau Besar and the wider Malay world. His life was an example of profound spiritual insight, deep humility, and tireless service to Allah ﷻ and His beloved Messenger ﷺ.
Syeikh Ismailق was born in an era when the light of Islam was spreading across the archipelago, a time marked by both great challenges and spiritual awakening.
From his earliest years, he was known for his natural inclination towards worship and remembrance.
His heart was drawn to the inner realities of the faith, seeking the presence of Allah ﷻ beyond the outward forms. His teachers often remarked on his gentle character and his deep thirst for knowledge, both of the Shariah and the hidden wisdom of the tasawwuf.
One beautiful story from his youth tells of how, during a gathering of scholars, Syeikh Ismailق remained silent as a heated debate ensued over matters of theology.
When finally asked for his opinion, he replied softly, “True knowledge is not in loud words, but in the silence of the heart that is filled with the remembrance of Allah ﷻ.”
Those who heard him were deeply moved, recognizing that his insight came not only from study but from an intimate closeness to the Divine.
His life on Pulau Besar was marked by simple living and profound generosity. He dedicated himself to serving the community, helping the poor, and teaching the path of love and humility.
It is said that he would rise before dawn every day, spending hours in prayer and contemplation before turning to care for the needs of others.
His door was always open, and travelers from distant lands would seek his counsel, drawn by the stories of his wisdom and kindness.
Syeikh Ismailق had a special gift for making complex spiritual concepts accessible. He taught that the essence of the path is the purification of the heart through constant remembrance and sincerity. “The heart that forgets Allah ﷻ is like a garden overrun with weeds,” he would say.
“Tend your heart with dhikr, and it will blossom with the light of guidance.” His words were simple but carried a weight that touched every soul who heard them.
A notable incident illustrates his humility and service. One day, a group of visitors arrived exhausted and hungry. Without hesitation, Syeikh Ismailق personally prepared food and served them, sitting among them as an equal rather than a Master.
When a disciple suggested that such tasks were beneath a spiritual Master, he smiled and said, “Service is the crown of the enlightened. Without serving others, our light cannot shine truly.”
His deep love for the Prophet ﷺ was evident in all he did. Gatherings in his presence were filled with heartfelt Salawat and Qur’anic recitation, and many testify that his voice carried a special sweetness that softened even the hardest hearts.
He taught that the true seeker’s goal is to embody the Sunnah, living a life marked by mercy, patience, and unwavering devotion.
Pulau Besar, under his blessing, became a centre of spiritual light and learning. His maqam there remains a place where the veil between this world and the next feels thin.
Pilgrims come not only to seek barakah but to renew their commitment to the path of sincerity and love that Syeikh Ismailق exemplified.
Throughout his life, Syeikh Ismailق emphasized that spiritual rank is not measured by miracles or public acclaim but by the depth of one’s love for Allah ﷻ and His Messenger ﷺ, and by the humility shown to all creation.
He once said, “The highest station is to be the lowest in your own eyes while being the highest in the sight of Allah ﷻ.” This teaching resonates deeply in a world often distracted by pride and status.
His passing was mourned by many, yet it was also a moment of celebration, for his soul had returned to the Beloved ﷺ, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide.
His Urs is a time for reflection, remembrance, and renewal of the spiritual bond that connects all those who seek to walk in the footsteps of the Awliya.
As we honour Syeikh Ismailق, let us remember his life as a living example of what it means to be truly close to Allah ﷻ, through love, humility, service, and constant remembrance.
May Allah ﷻ elevate his station and grant us the honour of following even a single step on his blessed path.
Al-Fatiha.
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