Search Nerddpedia

Immediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1783683184

** Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes the inner dimensions of faith, spiritual growth, and the pursuit of **_Ma'rifa_** (gnosis) through love, devotion, and self-purification. **CONTENT:** ## Overview Sufism, also known as Tasawwuf, is a spiritual tradition within Islam that seeks to cultivate a deeper, more intimate relationship with the divine. Emerging in the 8th century CE, Sufism emphasizes the importance of **_Tawhid_** (the oneness of God) and the pursuit of **_Ma'rifa_** (gnosis), which is the direct experience of the divine. Sufis believe that the ultimate goal of human existence is to attain a state of spiritual union with God, known as **_Fana_** (annihilation) and **_Baqaa_** (subsistence). This mystical path is characterized by a strong emphasis on love, devotion, self-purification, and the cultivation of spiritual virtues. Sufism has a rich history, with roots in the early Islamic period. The movement gained momentum in the 9th century CE, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. Sufi orders, or **_Tariqas_**, emerged as centers of spiritual learning and practice, attracting adherents from various social classes. Sufism has been influenced by various philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Greek philosophy, Persian mysticism, and Christian mysticism. Despite its rich history and diverse influences, Sufism remains a distinct and integral part of Islamic spirituality. ## History/Background The origins of Sufism are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have emerged in the 8th century CE, during the Abbasid Caliphate. The earliest Sufi masters, such as **_Rabi'a al-Adawiyya_** and **_Hasan al-Basri_**, emphasized the importance of **_Tawhid_** and the pursuit of **_Ma'rifa_**. The Sufi movement gained momentum in the 9th century CE, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. The establishment of Sufi orders, or **_Tariqas_**, marked a significant turning point in the history of Sufism. These orders, such as the **_Qadiriyya_** and **_Naqshbandiyya_**, became centers of spiritual learning and practice, attracting adherents from various social classes. ## Key Information Sufism is characterized by a strong emphasis on love, devotion, self-purification, and the cultivation of spiritual virtues. Sufis believe that the ultimate goal of human existence is to attain a state of spiritual union with God, known as **_Fana_** (annihilation) and **_Baqaa_** (subsistence). Sufis also believe in the importance of **_Tawhid_** (the oneness of God) and the pursuit of **_Ma'rifa_** (gnosis). Sufi practices include **_Muraqaba_** (meditation), **_Dhikr_** (remembrance of God), and **_Sufi whirling_** (a form of devotional dance). ## Significance Sufism has had a profound impact on Islamic spirituality and culture. Sufi orders, or **_Tariqas_**, have played a significant role in promoting Islamic learning and practice. Sufism has also influenced Western spirituality, particularly in the areas of mysticism and the pursuit of gnosis. The Sufi emphasis on love, devotion, and self-purification has inspired countless spiritual seekers throughout history. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Sufism - Type: Spiritual tradition - Date: 8th century CE - Location: Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia - Known For: Emphasis on love, devotion, self-purification, and the pursuit of gnosis **TAGS:** Sufism, Islam, Mysticism, Spirituality, Gnosis, Tawhid, Fana, Baqaa, Muraqaba, Dhikr, Sufi whirling, Tariqas, Islamic spirituality, Western spirituality.