Sufism

What is Sufism in Islam?

Sufism is the mystical branch of Islam where the believer seeks to experience God's presence during their lifetime, often through spiritual practices like repetitive prayers and meditative rituals.

What is the goal of a Sufi mystic?

The goal of a Sufi mystic is to encounter God in this life, often through psychological phenomena known as "ecstasies," rather than just following divine norms to reach God after death.

How are Sufis organized?

Most Sufis belong to brotherhoods founded by a spiritual master, who is venerated as a saint after death.

Who was one of the first Sufis, and what happened to him?

One of the first notable Sufis, al-Hallaj (858–922), was considered heretical and was crucified by the authorities in Baghdad.

How is Sufism viewed by Islamists?

Sufism is condemned by Islamists, who see it as a form of idol worship.

What is the practice of the Mevlevi order?

Members of the Mevlevi order, known as "whirling dervishes," seek union with the divine by performing ritual dances, spinning in circles as part of their spiritual practices.