Sufism the Alchemy of the Heart

Sufism is the mysticism of Islam and forms part of that faith. The Sufis' goal, however, is first to strenghten faith and then to transcend it by gaining, through Divine Grace, a love and a certainty that spring from direct knowledge of God. Sufis identify their Path with the pursuit of excellence or Ihsan as defined by the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him:

"Excellence is that you worship God as though you saw Him; and if you do not see Him, still He sees you."

The Path of Sufism has produced a literature and culture of extraordinary beauty and vigor that live on today. Its symbolism speaks to the heart and mind in poetry (Rumi), discourses, music (Sheikh Hassan Dyke & the Muhabbat Caravan) and art.

Derived from the Arabic word Tasawwuf, Sufism has been linked to the Suffa, or veranda, of the Mosque of the Prophet in Medina, home of several of his greatest Companions; to the Arabic words Suf ("wool"), traditionally worn by the mystics of Islam; to Safa ("purity"); and to the Greek Sophos ("wisdom").

As a scientific and spiritual Way of self-purification and self-realization, Sufism represents the initiatic Path or Tariqa and inner Reality, Haqiqa, of Islam, which complements the Law, Shari'a, and deepens awareness of its profound understanding without contraticting it.

"Recline on the throne of the heart, and with purity in manner be a Sufi."

Today innumerable Sufis are happy to choose poverty in accordance with the example of the Prophet, who taught that true wealth consists in contentment with what one has, and true poverty in discontent. While Sufism cannot cure all of society's ills, it offers compensations. Its doctrines serve to support the priciples and ethics of Islam with proofs satisfying to heart and mind. The brotherhoods provide shelter, networks anf contacts, are engaged in charities and give social and spiritual support.

The central doctrine of Sufism is that of Devine Unity. In theological terms, this means first and foremost that there can only be one God: La ilaha illa 'Llah meaning there is no God but God, who is One. The practice of Sufism is the seeking of the Truth through love and devotion to God; to follow the Spiritual Path, the way towards God. A Sufi is a lover of Truth, of the Perfection of the Absolute.

...But at the very least, by practicing God's remembrance your inner being will be illumined little by little and you will achieve some measure of detachment from the world."
(Rumi)


I wish you to find all the answers you seek on your journey into Sufism and may Allah protect and guide you. On the following pages you will be provided with information on how to become a part of this Spiritaul Path and learn more about the last Sufi Saint: Mawlana Sheikh Nazim al- Qubrezi al-Haqqani, may God bless and protect him.

Your humble brother,
Sultan