ABSTRACT
Two special functions unctions of the wali further urther illustrate the relation of the popular saint-cult to mystical philosophy-(1) his function as a mediator, (2) his function as a cosmic power. The Perfect Man, as will be explained in the course of our argument, unites the One and the Many, so that the universe depends on him for its continued existence. In Mohammedan religious life the wali occupies the same middle position: he bridges the chasm which the Koran and scholasticism have set between man and an absolutely transcendent God. He brings relief to the distressed, health to the sick, children to the childless, food to the famished, spiritual guidance to those who entrust their souls to his care, blessing to all who visit his tomb and invoke Allah in his name. The waifs, from the highest to the lowest, are arranged in a graduated hierarchy, with the Qu~b at their head, forming "a saintly board of administration by which the invisible government of the world is carried on1." Speaking of the AwtCtd-four saints whose rank is little inferior to that of the Qu~ b himself-Hujwiri says:
It is their office to go round the whole world every night, and if there be any place on which their eyes have not fallen, next day some flaw will appear in that place; and they must then inform the Qut b, in order that he may direct his attention to the weak spot, and that by his blessing the imperfection may be remedied2.
