The capacity to offer unconditional devotion to a newborn before rational understanding develops, grounded in Rabia's practice of loving the Divine without seeking reward.
Rabia al-Adawiyya taught that true love transcends reason and expectation—loving God for God's sake alone, not for paradise or fear of hell. In Birth and early bonding, this principle transforms parental attachment into pure devotion: bonding with an infant before they can reciprocate, speak, or demonstrate worth. Parents practice "love before knowing" by offering presence and care without requiring the child to earn affection or prove their value. This mirrors Rabia's radical surrender to divine love. The newborn period becomes a spiritual practice where attachment flows from the parent's commitment to love itself, not from the child's performance or personality. This foundation builds secure attachment while teaching the child that belonging is inherent, not conditional—a gift given freely, as Rabia gave her heart to the Divine without negotiation.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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