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Sufi
Islamic mystical paths of love, remembrance (dhikr), and proximity to the Divine through lineage orders.
Sufism (taṣawwuf) names the interior dimensions of Islam — purification of the heart, remembrance of God (dhikr), and ethical refinement under a guide (shaykh). Historic orders (Qadiriyya, Mevlevi, Naqshbandi, Chishti, and many others) developed distinctive liturgies, poetry, and music.
Contemporary Sufi communities range from traditional tarīqas to universalist circles influenced by teachers such as Hazrat Inayat Khan. Practice may include silent or vocal dhikr, whirling, poetry, and service.
Practices
Dhikr
Remembrance of the Divine Names through breath, sound, or silent repetition.
Sohbet & companionship
Spiritual conversation and community under a teacher’s guidance.
Sacred movement & music
Whirling, qawwali, and other forms that open the heart.
Texts
The Essential Rumi
Jalaluddin Rumi (tr. Coleman Barks et al.)
The Conference of the Birds
Farid ud-Din Attar