According to Attar's account in Tazkirat al-Awliya, Shaqiq al-Balkhi outlined four essential principles for the spiritual path to God:

1. Security in Provision (امن در روزی): Having absolute trust and reliance (Tawakkul) in God for one's sustenance.
2. Sincerity in Action (اخلاص در کار): Ensuring that all deeds and actions are performed with pure intentions solely for God.
3. Enmity with Satan (عداوت با شیطان): Actively recognizing and resisting negative temptations and worldly distractions.
4. Preparing for Death (ساختن مرگ): Living with a constant awareness of mortality and preparing one's soul for the afterlife.