M6:505 — یا بود اشتردلی چون دید ترس / گوید او بهر رجوع از راه درس

Translation: Or if a camel-hearted (cowardly) one, when he saw fear / He would preach to you a lesson, for turning back from the path. Meaning: This verse warns against associating with timid or fearful companions on the spiritual journey, as they will use their fear as a pretext to preach caution and persuade you to abandon the path.

I understand this verse within the broader context of choosing companions for the spiritual path. Mowlana, here, teaches us that we must be exceedingly precise in selecting our spiritual fellow-travelers. He speaks of the ashterdel, a quality that for him immediately signifies a "cowardly person." This timidity is not merely a personal trait; it swiftly transforms into an affliction for other seekers. An ashterdel, when confronted with difficulties—or what Mowlana calls "fear" on the path—not only retreats themselves but, instead of encouraging their companion to persevere, begins to "teach a lesson" and preach. With various pretexts and seemingly wise language, they attempt to convince their fellow traveler that the path is perilous and that one should turn back. Such an individual, in Mowlana's own words from other verses, is a "highway robber" (rāhzan); not one who steals material wealth, but one who robs the seeker's resolve and determination, thereby derailing them from the true path. This point holds a profound lesson for me: those who themselves lack the courage to move forward and step onto a hazardous path—those whom we today refer to as "conservatives" or overly cautious individuals—instead of remaining silent, will "teach you lessons," deliver sermons, and make speeches to convince you to turn back from the journey. Such a person, as Mowlana states in other verses, is not a walī (friend or protector) but an ʿaduww (enemy), because their fear and cowardice will contaminate you and diminish your resolve. The path to success is closed to anyone who fails to avoid such companions. Just as one should consult with experienced travelers for an earthly journey, so too on the spiritual journey must one distance oneself from those who have not traveled this path and whose hearts are filled with fear and doubt.

Key takeaways

• Choosing courageous and insightful companions is vital on the spiritual path.
• The 'camel-hearted' (cowardly) individual not only holds themselves back but also dissuades others with pretexts.
• Those who lack the courage to embark on perilous paths may, under the guise of 'advice,' deter you from moving forward.
• A timid companion is, in essence, a highway robber; they steal not wealth, but your resolve and determination.
• Fear and timidity can spread like a contagious disease to companions, thereby hindering success.