Sufism is the mystical and spiritual dimension of Islam. It emphasizes on the inward search for God and the unity of all creation. Sufism is not a separate sect of Islam but rather a way of practicing Islam.


The origins of Sufism can be traced back to the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. Sufism emerged in the 8th century in the Islamic world and spread rapidly. The early Sufis were ascetics who renounced the world and focused on spiritual purification. The most prominent Sufi orders were formed in the 12th century, which spread to different parts of the Islamic world.


Sufis believe in the concept of Tawhid, which means the oneness of God. They emphasize the importance of love, devotion, and selflessness in the pursuit of God. Sufis practice Dhikr, the remembrance of God, through chanting and repetition of the names of God and other prayers.


Sufism has many orders, each with its own unique practices and teachings. The most popular Sufi orders are the Qadiriyya, Naqshbandiyya, Chishtiyya, and Suhrawardiyya. Each order has its own chain of spiritual lineage that goes back to the Prophet Muhammad.


Sufism has had a significant impact on Islamic culture, particularly in the fields of literature, music, and art. Sufi poets such as Rumi, Hafiz, and Omar Khayyam are renowned for their spiritual poetry. Sufi music, known as Qawwali, is a popular form of devotional music in South Asia. Sufi art, such as calligraphy and miniature paintings, is also an important part of Islamic culture.


Sufism is often misunderstood as a separate sect of Islam or as a deviation from Islamic teachings. However, Sufism is a way of practicing Islam that emphasizes the spiritual and mystical aspects of the faith. Sufism is not a separate sect of Islam but rather a way of practicing Islam.

Sufism was one of the important developments in Islam during the medieval period. It were a group of religious minded people in Islam. Sufism was a reformist movement deriving from the holy Quran and the life of prophet Muhammed. They renounced the worldly life and relied on God alone.

Sufism were mystic and pantheists.
( idea of oneness of God. It implies that the human soul must be united with It's maker. Unity with God can be achieved through an intense love for God. This idea was preached by the woman saint Rabia of Basra in her poems ).

Emphasized on prayer and love.

Sufism used musical concerts (sama) to induce ecstasy and stimulate emotions of love and passion.

It is open to all irrespective of religion, status and gender. It thus gained popularity and posed a challenge to orthodox Islam.