The narrative follows a traveler through several stages of spiritual searching:
: Realizing that the ego (nafs) and the devil are the soul's two main enemies, the traveler asks for weapons to defend themselves. He is told that there is no greater weapon than prostration.
: Looking at the moon and stars, the traveler asks the universe if there is any "dirt of shirk" (associating partners with God) in them. The entire cosmos replies that they exist in a state of constant remembrance and prostration .
: Finally, seeking to drink from the heavenly Kevser and achieve a "Miraj" (spiritual ascension), the traveler learns that no permission is granted and no ascension is possible without the act of prostration.
: Standing before a wealthy man's ornate marble tomb, the traveler asks the angels of the grave if any ransom can save a soul. The answer is that there is no help or intercession except through prostration .