The article dives into the mystical form of Islam known as Sufism, its history in India, and the various orders pertaining to it. Recently emphasized by the publication of a book called ‘In Search of the Divine: Living Histories of Sufism in India’, an exploration into what Sufism is and its impact in India becomes relevant.
Understanding Sufism
Sufism is a school of Islam focusing on a spiritual search for God and renouncing materialism. Delving deeper into Islamic mysticism, Sufism stresses on asceticism, which is the practice of self-discipline and abstention generally for religious reasons. Key to Sufism is the concept of avid devotion towards God and self-discipline, considered a crucial condition for gaining knowledge of God through perception.
In 12 AD, the advent of Sufism began when religious people in Persia resorted to asceticism due to the growing materialism of the Caliphate, earning them the name ‘Sufis’. The Sufi movement made its way to India around 1300 A.D and eventually found its place in South India by the 15th century.
Unlike orthodox Muslims who emphasize external conduct, Sufis prioritise inner purity. Initially, Multan and Punjab were the early centres of Sufism; however, its influence eventually spread to Kashmir, Bihar, Bengal, and the Deccan.
Etymology of Sufism
The term ‘Sufi’ likely originates from the Arabic ‘suf’ word, which translates to ‘one who wears wool’. This terminology is linked to ascetics usually donning woolen clothes. Another potential origin of the word could be ‘safa’, which signifies purity in Arabic.
Stages of Sufism
Sufism evolved over three primary stages. The first stage, known as ‘Khanqah’, started in the 10th century and was also called the ‘age of Golden Mysticism’. The second stage, called ‘Tariqa’, spanned from the 11th to 14th century when Sufism was institutionalized, and traditions and symbols became associated with it. The third stage, referred to as ‘Tarifa’, began in the 15th century, marking the point when Sufism transformed into a popular movement.
Major Sufi Orders
Sufism is composed of several orders including the Chisti, Suhrawardi, Naqshbandi, and Qadiriyya order.
The Chishtiya Order was founded in India by Khwaja Moin-Uddin Chishti. They advocated the doctrine of unity with God and refrained from any connections with the secular state. Recitation of the names of God formed the cornerstone of their practice.
The Suhrawardi Order differed from the Chishtis as they accepted maintenance grants from the Sultans. This order was founded by Sheikh Shahabuddin Suharwardi Maqtul.
The Naqshbandi Order, founded by Khwaja Baha-ul-din Naqsh band, placed emphasis on observing the Shariat. In India, this order was initiated by Khwaja Bahauddin Naqshbandi.
Lastly, the Qadiriyya Order, which was popular in Punjab, supported the Mughals under Akbar. Sheikh Abdul Qadir of Badaun established this order in the 14th century.
