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Ostad Elahi's expression of thought was not limited to his writings. His ethical convictions permeated every aspect of his social life, and for those who were observant, his life was rich in teachings. In Words of Truth one can find many examples of his openness and of the impact that his behavior and advice had on friends and relatives, those with whom he interacted professionally, and even on those who simply crossed his path during his travels.
After retiring and permanently settling in Tehran, Ostad began welcoming into his home all those who wished to see him. On an informal basis they would come to visit and gather around him to discuss specific issues or to seek his advice. Many saw Ostad as a holy man, and thus sought his blessing either for themselves or for loved ones and friends. Others considered him a wise, experienced, and trustworthy person who could provide solutions to their problems. Still others came to listen to his music or to hear him elaborate on topics that he was thoroughly versed in such as Sufism and mysticism.
Gradually, from this wide circle of visitors a small group of genuine students began to form, and the informal meetings at his home soon became regular gatherings every Monday evening. Ostad, who had never sought students, was more surprised than anyone at the form his teachings were beginning to take. People would come from cities throughout Iran and sometimes even from the West in search of guidance or solutions to their problems. Ostad would welcome these visitors as if they were close friends or family, and many of them still recall the warm atmosphere of those gatherings.
Ostad had an exceptional gift for verbal communication, and could easily adapt to the different cultures, convictions, or religious backgrounds of his visitors. Sometimes he would give an exegesis, while at other times he would interpret anecdotes and allegories from the Holy Scriptures, or even from daily events and personal experiences. In spite of his great erudition, he could easily bring himself to the level of his listeners, using simple words that made even the most complex spiritual questions seem as familiar as the innocuous events of daily life. Ostad always emphasized that his teachings were above all practical, and not to be taken just as theory: "This path is not a path of words, but a path of practice, for it is only with practice that we progress."
Among his students, his sister Malek Jan (1906-1993), who had been the first to benefit from his guidance, was the most advanced. It is through this exceptional woman that Ostad’s teachings would continue after him. Currently, Ostad’s system of thought is being studied and taught mainly through seminars and the publication of several books.
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