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Which Madhab Does Sufism Follow? A Clear and Insightful Guide

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Many wonder which school of Islamic law Sufis adhere to . The quick answer is: Sufism itself is not a madhab but a dimension of Islamic practice focused on personal refinement, and it is fully compatible with all four Sunni madhabs — Hanafi, Shafi'i, Maliki, and Hanbali. This article explains how Sufism relates to the madhabs, highlights regional variations in practice, explores its historical development alongside Islamic law, and clears up common misconceptions about its place within Sunni orthodoxy. Questions about the relationship between Sufism and the legal schools of thought arise because many people mistakenly assume Sufism is its own sect, separate from mainstream Islam. In reality, Sufism — or Tasawwuf, as it is called in Arabic — exists within the framework of Islamic law (shariah) rather than outside it. Every Sufi practitioner or order follows one of the established schools of law when it comes to matters of prayer, fasting, zakat, marriage, and other legal obligations...

Where Is Allah According to Sufism? A Deep Dive Into Spiritual Understanding

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Many wonder where Allah "is" — especially through the mystical lens of Sufism . The quick answer is: Sufis emphasize that Allah is both transcendent and immanent, meaning He is beyond any physical "place" yet closer to His creation than they can imagine. This perspective aligns with the Quranic descriptions of Allah's nearness and His freedom from limitations. In this article, we'll examine how Sufis interpret Allah's presence, explore key concepts they use to explain it, analyze scholarly views on these ideas, and clarify common misunderstandings that often surround the discussion. For centuries, Muslims from all walks of life have pondered the question of Allah's "location." Verses like "He is with you wherever you are" (Quran 57:4) and "He established Himself above the Throne" (Quran 20:5) have inspired deep reflection and sometimes debate. Does Allah exist within creation? Is He "above" it? Or is such langu...

Did the Prophet Practice Sufism? Let's Explore the Truth

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Many people associate Sufism with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), but did he actually practice Sufism? The quick answer is: while the Prophet embodied the highest level of moral and inner excellence, the term Sufism as we know it was coined much later in Islamic history. He did not belong to any Sufi order or use the label, but his teachings and character became the foundation upon which Sufi traditions later developed. This article explores the origins of Sufism, how it connects to the Prophet's example, the practices it promotes, Islamic perspectives on its legitimacy, and some of the most common misconceptions surrounding it. Over the centuries, Sufism has been both celebrated and criticized within the Muslim world. For some, it represents the purest expression of Islam's inward dimension — a way to live with mindfulness, love, and ethical awareness, rooted in the Prophet's example. For others, it raises concerns about innovation and the adoption of practices that may not a...

What Does Islam Say About Sufism? A Clear and Honest Look

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When people hear the word Sufism , many wonder: is it truly part of Islam or something separate? The quick answer is that Sufism is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition as a path of devotion and inner refinement, though it has sparked debate among scholars and followers over the centuries. Some see it as the heart of Islamic practice, while others raise concerns about certain practices or interpretations that have developed in some circles. This article takes a clear and honest look at what Islam really says about Sufism , explaining its foundations, addressing the criticisms, and clarifying common misconceptions in a way that everyone can understand—Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Across the Muslim world, Sufism has left an undeniable mark on Islamic thought, art, and culture. Yet, its place within the faith is not without controversy. Why do some call Sufis the most devoted servants of God while others accuse them of straying from the core teachings? These questions matter because they ...