Assalamu Alaikum, Sir in order to join the Silsila (chain) of some Buzurg Peer (Saint) is it necessary to have covenant (Bai’ath) with him and what is the reality of it from the Islamic point of view? Please rectify us in this aspect. Mohammad Azam
الجواب حامدا و مصلیا
The main objective is self rectification. Bai’ath is a covenant of a person who makes Toba (asking forgiveness) and assures to refrain from sins on the hands of an elder who himself is a follower of Shari’a in his practical life and also have the capability of making others too adhere to Shari’a, which is of assistance in self-rectification. Adopting the Bai’ath system is although not Fardh or Wajib in grade yet it is Sunnath.
Allah knows best.