The mystical aspect of Islam is Sufism. It emphasizes on the strong relationship between Allah and believers as well as the inner journey of the soul. While Islam provides Muslims precise and clear guidance for fasting, prayers and worship. Another layer is added by Sufism, which instructs Muslims to look within their faith for spiritual meaning and inner peace. According to Sufism, divine love, spirituality and closeness to Allah are the source of ultimate happiness.
What is Sufism?
Sufism is not an independent and separate religion but it is an Islamic path. Another name for it is Islamic mysticism. Sufism encourages Muslims to adopt modest, simple and spiritual lifestyles. Purification of heart and getting rid of negative behaviours and qualities like arrogance, anger and greed is the aim of Sufism in order to get closer to Allah. The word Sufi is associated with the word Suf referring to wool in Arabic. As a symbol of their simplicity, early Sufis wore wool clothing. They prioritized Allah’s love over luxury. Sufism gained recognition as the way of inner calmness, love and devotion over time.
Mysticism and inner purification
Sufism views mysticism as focused on the invisible and beyond what human sight can see. According to Sufism, each individual has an inner life that is hidden in the heart as well as the outside life that can be seen through actions. Purification of the inner life leads to the true calm and peace, although the outer life is significant. In Sufism, mysticism refers to establishing a connection with Allah and the invisible world. It involves looking for wisdom and the truth. The removal of arrogance, lust, pride and jealousy is necessary for this inner purification. To purify their souls and deepen their faith, Sufis engage in dhikr or the continuous remembrance of Allah. In Sufism, mysticism is nothing to do with magic or mystery. It is about living a sincere life and cleaning the soul.
Spirituality and the Love of Allah
Sufism is centred on spirituality. It means establishing a close connection with Allah. Sufis emphasizes fasting and salah, but argues that both of them are not just duties. They need to be perform with true love and devotion. Sufis believe that Allah is always close. Spirituality is their effort to sense His presence at all times. Sufis frequently describe their path as a kind of divine love. For them, Allah is both the Creator and the Beloved. For all living things, this love promotes tolerance, compassion and generosity. A Sufi leans to love others, forgive other’s mistakes and be nice if they love Allah. This love was poetically described by famous Sufi poets like Rumi and Hafiz. The beauty of devotion, the thrill of spiritual unity and love for Allah were all mentioned in their verses.
Divine Love in Sufism
In Sufism, the one of the most important idea is Divine love. Love is the most effective way to reach Allah according to Sufism. Rites and rules are crucial, but they are meaningless without love. A person who loves Allah will naturally stay away from sins and choose the correct path. The believer becomes grateful in pleasure and patient in sorrow and difficulties because of divine love. It also promotes love and forgiveness for others. This love involves more than just feelings, it also involves actions. A person should show their love for Allah by being kind, truthful and compassionate. According to Sufism, the real test of divine love is how it transforms one’s personality. A heart filled with love promotes kindness and peace instead of causing harm to others.
Practices in Sufism
Sufis adopt variety of rituals to deepen their faith and maintain a close relationship with Allah. The following are common practices:
- Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): To maintain faith in the heart, repeat words like La ilaha ilallah or the Allah’s names.
- Sama (Listening to spiritual music or poetry): Some Sufis communities adopt music and poetry as means to fostering reflection and devotion.
“whirling dervishes”.
- Meditation and reflection: Taking some time for reflecting on one’s own deeds and the greatness of Allah.
- Service to others: Taking care of others and helping to the poor people as a means of expressing Allah’s love.
Sufis are reminded by these acts that spiritualty is about improving the lives of others, not just about inner peace.
The role of Sufi Orders
Various sufi groups emerged over time. They are referred to as tariqas or orders. The founder of each order was spiritual teacher who guide believers through the path of knowledge and love. These teachers referred to as Sheikhs. They offered guidance, support and discipline. Followers were instructed by the sheikh through spiritualty and divine love. Sufi orders expanded throughout the Muslim world. Their contribution in the region such as Africa, South Asia and Central Asia was significant. Because of wisdom, kindness and modesty of Sufis, many people were attracted to Islam.
Misunderstandings about Sufism
Sufism is misunderstanding by some people. They believe it to be distinct from Islam, but it is not true. Sufism adhere to Sunnah and Quran. They adopt Islamic teachings, pray and fast. By emphasizing the inner life, Sufism only adds another dimension. Some people believe that Sufism is about dancing, poetry or music, but that is incorrect. Purifying the soul, loving Allah and helping others are the main principles of Sufism. Music and poetry are simply means of expressing one’s love for ALLAH.
Why Sufism Matters Today
Nowadays, there is a lot of tensions, conflicts and materialism in the world. Even those who are wealthy and comfortable may feel empty on the inside. Sufism provides a solution. It teaches that spirituality and divine love are the source of inner peace. Sufism serve as a reminder that power, wealth and fame is not everything. It instructs believers to concentrate on the heart and its relationship with Allah, which are the things that truly count. More than ever, its message of humility, love and mercy is required. Sufi poets like Rumi are well-known all over the world. People from various cultures and religions are attracted to their words of love and peace.
