What is sufism ? Elaborate its development and teachings?

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Sufism is a mystical and ascetic movement within Islam that emphasizes the inner spiritual dimensions of the faith. It originated in the 9th century in the Middle East and has since spread throughout the Islamic world.

The development of Sufism is closely tied to the early history of Islam. In the early years of the religion, a number of mystics and ascetics emerged who sought to deepen their spiritual connection to God through prayer, meditation, and self-denial. These mystics, known as Sufis, followed a path of spiritual development known as the tariqa, which involved following the teachings of a spiritual guide or master (shaykh).

Sufism has been influenced by a number of philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Neoplatonism, Gnosticism, and Hinduism. Sufis believe that the ultimate goal of spiritual development is to achieve union with God (tawhid) and to become fully aware of the divine presence in all things.

The teachings of Sufism are centered on the concept of love and the cultivation of inner peace and spiritual purification. Sufis seek to achieve this through practices such as dhikr (remembrance of God), fikr (contemplation of God), and sama (listening to music or chanting as a means of spiritual elevation).

Sufism has also had a significant impact on the development of Islamic art and literature, with many Sufi poets and writers producing works that explore themes of love, spiritual longing, and the nature of the divine.

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