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Discuss the major beliefs and practices that characterize Sufism?
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Discuss the major beliefs and practices that characterize Sufism?
Major Beliefs in Sufism
Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes the inward search for God and a personal connection with the Divine. Its core beliefs include:
  • Unity of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud): Sufis believe in the oneness of all existence and that everything is a manifestation of the Divine presence.
  • Love and Devotion: Love for God is central; Sufis express this through poetry, music, and dance, often viewing love as the path to divine knowledge.
  • Seeking Inner Purity: Sufism stresses the importance of purifying the heart and soul through self-discipline and spiritual practices.
  • Personal Experience: Individual mystical experiences are valued over formal religious scholarship, emphasizing direct communion with God.



Practices in Sufism
Sufi practices aim to achieve spiritual closeness to God and include various rituals and methods:
  • Zikr (Remembrance of God): Repetition of God's names or attributes, often in communal gatherings, fostering a deep sense of connection to the Divine.
  • Whirling Dervishes: A form of active meditation practiced by the Mevlevi order, where practitioners spin to achieve a trance-like state, symbolizing the soul's journey towards God.
  • Poetry and Music: The works of poets like Rumi and Hafez are recited or sung, serving as both spiritual expression and a means of connecting with the divine.
  • Spiritual Guidance: Sufis often follow a guide (sheikh or pir) who provides mentorship on the spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of community and shared experiences.


Sufism thus represents a rich tradition within Islam, focusing on love, unity, and the inner journey towards the Divine.
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