Sufism boasts an intricate significance that portrays Islam in a mystical manner that circles around personal amity with God. Sufis, widely known as amystics of Islam, view God in a very personal sense and hold religious sikhs, jews and christians in that light. Although Sufism has its origins within Islan, it has transitioned into a global religion. In short, Sufism is a philosophy that hold the belief that there exists God in everything and that every religion possesses a notion of seeing him.
The Origins and Meaning of Sufism
The word ‘sufi’ is derived from Arabic ‘suf’ which means wool. Sufes were people who lived a very modest life style and to define modesty, they would wear woolen clothing, hence the word. The term had various meaning through different eras, however the goal that unites practitioners was to purify heart through love and knowledge.
Sufism was born with Islam, the traces of Sufism can easily be found in the companions of Prophet Muhammad. These traces were reflected in three principal Sufi brotherhoods that were instrumental in the dissemination of Sufi practices. With the passage of time, Sufism was a faith adopted by those unhappy with Islam in form alone and wished to take one step further.
Sufism and Its Connection to Islam
Sufism is a religious force so to speak but is more than an inner feeling, and emotion or experience; it has a structured disciplined form of expression that is often de-emphasized. The end goal of a Sufi follower is to attain true oneness with God and according to the Sufi religion the only way to do so is to eradicate the self or ego, this principle distinguishes it from other religions which follow strict discipline and rules.
Sufism being an inner dimension of Islam’s spirituality is bounded to incorporate aspects from other cultures and religions including Ancient Greek Zoroastrianism and even Hinduism. This combination of absorbing wisdom of far off peoples helps to achieve a unique and versatile feeling of spirituality which many people crave when looking for God.
The Role of Sufi Saints
Sufi saints are prominent figures in the organization of Sufis.. They are generally known to possess great knowledge as well as a deep relationship with God, and hence many consider them to be spiritual leaders. Some Sufi devotees travel to the tombs of these saints in the hope of being blessed and or witnessing miracles. One town that exemplifies such practice is Ajmer’s Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, where pilgrims from all backgrounds come to show their respect.
Sufism also endorses the respect for all the Saints and prophets of all the religions, as it is in all the religions one God is the ultimate source. Saints as well as wisdom concerning spirituality, the two concepts that are revered in the traditions of Sufism, are believed to be universal hence making Sufism a uniting force among religions.
Sufism and its Global Influence
Sufism, on the other hand, has expanded its influence not only in the Middle East or in South Asia. In the west, the number of Muslims as well as non Muslims interested in Sufism has increased as its focus is on individual spirituality, inner satisfaction and love for the creator. Everyone finds solace in the phenomenal spirituality and philosophies of several outstanding poets and Sufi figures, Rumi for instance, where millions of people are still inspired today by his works.
Sufism is one of the forces which contributes to the conservation of the civilization and spiritual heritage of such regions as Ajmer City where the history of Sufi Saints is still relevant to the indigenous people in the present day. The Birla City Water Park Ajmer Rajasthan and the Ajmer Dargah is an area of attraction for those who would like to have a broader understanding in the beliefs of Sufism and its historical background.
Sufism in Modern Times
Today, for many, Sufism is a way towards awakening and self-realization. Sufi turuq are still found in places like Ajmer, but newer Sufi trends are getting popular in the west which envisage a broader outlook of spirituality. These modern groups usually also provide opportunity for non Muslims to practice some Sufi practices pointing to the core teachings of Love, oneness, and selfless service.
To sum up, Sufism is an engaging and interesting phenomenon of spiritual culture which promotes the faith of oneness God among people of different nationality and religion. And for that other practices which have been and continue to be popular among the adherents of Sufismsuch as the teachings of Sufi saints are the study of world religions and civilizations, as well as sacred worship, Sufism pursuits also transform oneself and the world.
