A common saying among the mystics, one attributed to the Noble Prophet by way of Imam Ali is the following:
“He who knows himself knows his Lord”.
Throughout history, human beings have striven to know God through devotions, science, astrology, mysticism, philosophy, art, and even sensuality. In one way or another, it is possible to grab glimpses of the divine presence in all things, all forms of creation, and in all levels of consciousness.
“He would not be harsh towards anyone and would accept the apology of the one who sought pardon from him. Of all people, he used to smile the most – except when the Qur’an was being revealed to him and he was exhorting or admonishing people…”
“He would neither stand nor sit except by remembering Allah. When someone came to sit with him while he was praying, he would shorten the prayer and turn to him saying: “Do you need something?” — Sunan An-Nabi