What is Sufism? -

Описание: Sufism: A Mystical Path Within Islam

Sufism is a mystical practice within Islam. It emphasizes purification, spirituality, ritual, and asceticism. Sufis aim to please God by returning to their original state of purity, called fitra.

Fitra represents innate human nature recognizing God's oneness. It's linked to the divine spirit God breathed into Adam, signifying Adam's true essence.

The term "Sufism" entered European languages in the 18th century. Early scholars viewed it as an intellectual movement separate from orthodox Islam. However, historian Nile Green argues Sufism and Islam were largely indistinguishable in the medieval period. Today, Sufism encompasses diverse social, cultural, political, and religious phenomena.

"Sufi" might derive from "wool," referencing ascetic clothing, or "safa," meaning purity. Sufism likely emerged in the Hejaz, Saudi Arabia, existing from early Islam, predating some sectarian divisions.

Present in both Sunni and Shia Islam, Sufism isn't a sect but a method of understanding and practicing Islam more deeply. It aims to elevate regular religious duties to a higher spiritual level.

Academic research confirms Sufism's integral role in Islamic teaching. It focuses on inner self-purification, emphasizing spiritual experience through intuition and emotion. From the early medieval period onward, Sufism became a significant and widespread aspect of Muslim life, influencing Islamic civilization.

Sufism's spread helped expand Islam, particularly in Africa and Asia. The Senussi tribes of Libya and Sudan exemplify strong Sufi adherence. A flourishing intellectual culture thrived within Sufism from the 13th to 16th centuries.

Sufism faced opposition throughout history. The 18th century saw violent opposition, and the 20th century brought criticism from modernists and reformers. Sufi orders were sometimes accused of promoting superstition and hindering progress.

Sufis, like all Muslims, strive for closeness to God. However, Sufis believe this closeness can be achieved more fully in this life. Their path involves both outer (sharia) and inner (repentance, virtue development) laws. The transmission of divine light from teacher to student is crucial for spiritual progress.

Sufis believe sharia (exoteric law), tariqa (Sufi order), and haqiqa (truth) are interconnected. The Sufi path (suluk) guides the adept through stages (maqamat) to perfect tawhid (God's oneness).

Sufi literature uses allegorical language, sometimes leading to misinterpretations. Some groups wrongly claimed to bypass sharia, prompting criticism from traditional scholars.

The relationship between Sufism and traditional Islamic scholars remains complex, with diverse scholarly opinions. Muraqaba, a Sufi practice similar to meditation, involves focusing senses inward and directing consciousness towards God.

Walī, meaning "friend of God," refers to Islamic saints. The doctrine of saints emerged early in Islam, and many early Sufi mystics became venerated saints. Sufi organization helped solidify saint veneration.


Conclusion: Sufism, despite facing challenges and misinterpretations, demonstrates the diverse and evolving nature of faith. It highlights the enduring human yearning for deeper spiritual connection with the divine. Its rich history and ongoing influence underscore its importance in Islamic culture and spirituality.

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