Auliya

Auliya is the plural form of wali, from the Arabic word meaning "friend," "guardian," or "protector." In Islamic usage, Auliya refers to saints or holy persons believed to have close proximity to God and to possess spiritual knowledge or powers. The term is used across Sunni, Shia, and Sufi contexts, though expectations of saintly status vary.

In Sufism, a wali is someone who has achieved a high degree of piety and spiritual realization (maqamat) and is believed to receive divine grace (karamat) that may include miracles. Such figures are regarded as guides for the community, offering counsel and, in some traditions, intercession. Notable historical awliya include figures associated with major Sufi orders, such as Abdul Qadir Gilani, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, and Bahauddin Naqshband, among others recognized by followers for spiritual legitimacy.

Cultural practice often centers on shrines (dargahs) and pilgrimages (ziyarat). The annual commemoration of a saint's death, known as urs in South Asia, is a common local religious event. Communities may visit tombs to seek blessings, spiritual solace, or intercession.

The concept and veneration of awliya vary within the Muslim world. Some Sunni reform movements criticize saint veneration as bid’ah (innovation) or shirk, while many others maintain reverence for holy people within an accepted framework. In Shia Islam, veneration of saints also exists but with different theological emphases.