Sufism and Mysticism in Islam: Complete Guide

Sufism, a mystic and ascetic dimension within Islam, holds a significant place in the spiritual landscape of the Muslim community. The term “Sufi” originates from the Arabic word “suf,” meaning wool, reflecting the early Sufis’ distinctive attire. 

This mystical path, focused on attaining proximity to Allah through devotion, encompasses various practices and rituals. While Sufism is not a separate Islamic sect, it has evolved over time, prompting questions about its alignment with historical principles. This exploration delves into the essence of Sufism, its practices in contemporary times, and potential deviations from mainstream Islamic beliefs.

What is Sufism and Sufi in Islam?

Sufi name is very symbolic as the early Sufis used to wear woolen garments. Linguistically, Sufi is an Arabic word which is derived from the root “suf”, it means wool. Yet technically, Sufi is the one who follows an Islamic mysticism or asceticism which helps Muslims attain nearness to Allah through devotion.

Sufis are Muslims who follow spiritual practices to seek Allah, such as meditation, prayers, and selfless service. Yet, Does Sufism nowadays resemble the real Sufism path likewise what it was in the past?

Sufism (Tasawwuf) is not a separate Islamic sect, it is rather a way of understanding and practicing Islam that is open to all Muslims. Sufis nowadays believe that the ultimate goal of life is to unite with Allah, and they use a variety of methods to achieve this goal.

What Are the Practices and Rituals of Sufis Nowadays?

Sufis often engage in ritual practices such as Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), Sama’ (listening to spiritual music). Sufis also practice meditation as a way to focus their attention on Allah and to calm their tempers and clear their minds.

How Does Sufism Differ from the Mainstream of Islam?

To stick to the safe side is to warn against Sufi’s extremist practices with no exception since it represents many innovations that constitute polytheism. Some nowadays Sufism practitioners seek help from creatures saying: 

“Madad ya sayyid … (Help, O Master)” and recite Dhikr collectively in unison, which represents an innovation itself, while using some names attributed to Allah that He has not called Himself with – like saying “Huw, Huw (He, He)” and “Ah, Ah (referring to Allah)”.

Sufism Beliefs: Deviations Found in Sufi Thought:

The following discussion delves into some deviations found in Sufi thought, particularly focusing on certain beliefs within Sufism. This exploration includes considerations on excessive devotion, exemptions from obligations, the perceived hierarchy between saints and prophets, and differing interpretations of faith. 

It is important to examine these perspectives in light of Islamic teachings, emphasizing the balance between worldly life and the afterlife, the significance of good deeds in conjunction with faith, and the superiority of prophets in fulfilling divine missions. Through a critical lens, we unravel the nuances surrounding these deviations within Sufi beliefs.

1- Excessive Devotion

Some Sufis abandon the earthly world completely and only devote themselves to the hereafter, neglecting their human nature and needs; for example, some of them abandon marriage. 

Yet, the core essence of Islam is to achieve a balance between earthly life and the afterlife, being aware that this earthly life is a bridge to the eternal afterlife. A very inspiring supplication mentioned in the Quran says: 

“Our Lord! Grant us the good of this world and the Hereafter, and protect us from the torment of the Fire.” . 

(2: 201)

Allah Almighty says: 

“Rather, seek the ˹reward˺ of the Hereafter by means of what Allah has granted you, without forgetting your share of this world. And be good ˹to others˺ as Allah has been good to you. Do not seek to spread corruption in the land, for Allah certainly does not like the corruptors.” (28:77)

2- An Exemption from Obligations!

Some deviated Sufis claimed that anyone could reach Allah through devotion, and then be freed from the obligation of worship!

3- Sainthood VS Prophecy

Some believe that a walī (saint) is superior to a prophet. According to such mystics, while the prophet receives revelation from Allah through an angel, the saints receive their knowledge directly through inspiration.

Yet, Prophets are superior to all people, as they were chosen by Allah for the divine mission.

4- Belief Is In the Heart

Some claim that the goal of their life is to have a pure heart full of faith even if the person does not follow the Islamic orders and prohibitions. Yet this completely contradicts the concept of faith defined in the Quran and Sunnah.

Throughout the whole Quran, faith is associated with good deeds as in the glad tidings: “And those who believe and do good will be the residents of Paradise. They will be there forever.” (2:82). According to the Sunnah, “Faith abides not in wishes, but dwells in hearts, and (should) be verified by deeds.”

How Does Sufism Interpret the Quran and Hadith?

Sufis interpret the Quran and Hadith by reflecting on the inner or mystical meaning of the texts. They depend on their own reason and inspiration. 

They believe that spiritual insights is a way to see the hidden messages delivered through the Quran and Hadith. In fact, they follow the path of Ta’weel, which means reason-based interpretation by going beyond the clear literal meaning of the text.

The interpretation of the Quran and Hadith by Sufis is a complex topic. There is no single way that Sufis interpret these texts, and different Sufis may have different interpretations of the same verse or hadith.

How Has Sufism Influenced Islamic Culture and Civilization?

Sufism has had a profound influence on Islamic thoughts and culture. Many of the great Muslim scholars and poets were Sufis. Today, there are millions of Sufis around the world. In fact, Sufism is a vibrant and dynamic tradition.

In the meanwhile, Islam helps every Muslim to achieve a harmony between his heart, body and soul. Moderation is the core Islamic concept that everyone should achieve to understand his nature and to be closer to Allah Almighty. 

Yet, some Sufis focus on one side neglecting the other. Some moderate Sufi scholars tried through their writings to close the gap and find a way to represent mysticism from a true Islamic perspective at the top of which is Abu Hamed al-Ghazālī (May Allah shower him with his mercy).

Some Famous Sufi Personalities

Abu Hamed al-Ghazālī

He is a Shafi’ite Fiqh scholar who is known as the Proof of Islam. He is the philosopher of the Islamic golden age. He is a true Sufi scholar.

Jalal Ad-Din Ar-Rumi (1207-1273)

He is a Persian poet and mystic. He is considered one of the greatest Sufi poets of all time. His poems are full of love, wisdom, and spiritual insights.

Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (1077-1166)

He was a Persian Sufi scholar. He is considered one of the greatest Sufi masters of all time.

Islamic Mysticism Meaning

Mysticism is a spiritual belief. When speaking about an Islamic concept we have to trace its historical progress and its ruling according to the Islamic Shariah. Many words convey several meanings, and the usage of words change according to the place and time. You can see true mysticism in the prophetic era. 

Then, you can find some people following the same concept but with exaggeration and deviation.

It is Crystal Clear!

Allah Almighty commands us to follow His orders and the Prophetic path with no deviation or fabrication. Speaking about the true Mysticism, it is obvious that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has set the pillars of Islam, faith, and excellence through a famous Hadith called the mother of the Sunnah (Umm As-Sunnah). 

In this Hadith, everything is clear about the essence of Islam and the highest level of faith which is excellence. 

Beware!

This religion is clear and the right path is known for those who are guided. Allah Almighty shows us the way. 

He, Almighty, says in the Quran: “…Allah intends ease for you, not hardship…” (2:185), and “And it is Allah’s Will to turn to you in grace, but those who follow their desires wish to see you deviate entirely ˹from Allah’s Way˺.” .

(4:27)

Conclusion – It’s Your Turn!

Are you excited to know more about true Sufism? You can check this link to read more about the masterpieces of al-Ghazālī.

It is time to know more about Real Islam. Do not hesitate; it’s really worth it. You will find peace, harmony and tranquility in the right path to Allah. 

You can achieve balance in your life accepting your weakness, configuring and realizing your human nature. You will get a way to reclaim your heart and increase your knowledge while knowing more about Islam; the true religion.

May Allah guide us all to His right path and prosper our knowledge to follow it …. May we get His guidance to rebuke all the doubts … May Allah show us the way to differentiate between the falsehood and truth… And help us find a way to realize our weakness, accept our nature, and challenge ourselves fleeing to Him; our Creator.

Rehab Jamal Bakri