The Real Elixir

An interesting account related by Shaykh Rajab Ali Khayyat (ra) about love of God as an elixir as well as the real elixir is quoted as follows:

"Once I was looking for the science of alchemy; I practiced self-discipline for a time until I reached a dead end and gained nothing. Then, in a spiritual state I was graced with the verse,

(If any do seek for glory and power-to Allah belong all glory and power) (Fatir: 10). I said I wanted the science of alchemy. I was told (by inspiration): 'They want alchemy for glory and power; the reality of glory and power is in this verse (the aforesaid verse). This set my mind at ease."

Several days later, two men (following ascetic practices) came to my house and asked to meet with me. When we met they said: 'It has been two years since we have been trying to acquire the science of alchemy but to no effect. We appealed to Hazrat Imam al-Reza (a), he referred us to you.

The Shaykh smiled and told them the above story and then added: "I was permanently delivered (from such an aspiration); the reality of alchemy is attaining (proximity with) God Himself."