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Sufism is a mystical form of Islam based on the writings of Shaykh Adhmad Zarruq. Sufi mystics practice a contemplative form of Islam and use parables, metaphors, and allegories to transcend temporal aspects of existence. The goal is to experience a connection with God that is enduring and not subject to corruption. Sufism has common ground with mystics of other world religions.
Sufis are adherents of the religion of Islam who emphasize and promote the mystical form of the Islamic faith known as Sufism. This expression of Islam is based on the writings of Shaykh Adhmad Zarruq, considered by many to be the mystical teacher of the Sufi faith. His 15th-century work The Principles of Sufism continues to be an important work for all practitioners of the Sufi discipline.
While all Muslims understand that it is possible to approach the Godhead after physical death, people who seek to connect with God through the Sufi faith understand that it is possible to approach the Divine while still in this life. To this end, Sufi mystics tend to practice a form of Islam that is very contemplative in nature. Sufi brotherhoods, known as Tariqa, offer individuals the opportunity to live and worship together for the purpose of practicing this form of mysticism.
Sufi teachers and practitioners tend to make use of parables or stories to illustrate points of the faith. Along with parables, the use of metaphors and allegories is also very common. The goal is to help individuals transcend the temporal aspects of existence and begin to see existence as not strictly divided into temporal and spiritual aspects. By abandoning these artificial boundaries, the Sufi believes it is possible to see life in the here and now as part of eternity and to recognize the deep connection with the eternal.
The underlying principle of Sufi faith and practice has to do with seeking not only to gain understanding, but to personally experience a connection with God that is enduring and not subject to corruption by outside influences. This is often considered a lifelong quest for the devout Sufi that will continue once the individual passes from life on earth and enters the spiritual realm. The faithful Sufi will engage in a series of personal learning experiences which are linked by periods of contemplation and prayer so that greater understanding can be achieved. From this perspective, a Sufi can be said to have common ground with mystics of other world religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christian denominations that contain elements of mysticism and Gnosticism.
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