برهانيات كوم
What must a Sufi follower do?
The followers of Sufism are preoccupied with the inner aspects of Islam and try to realize these principles within their own lives. An important aspect is the love for the Prophet Muhammad (s) and his family. When entering an order the follower is given special prayers and exercises specific to his/her Tariqa which are performed independently. The central exercise is the dhikr, the commemoration of God. The follower of Sufism passes through many states and stages on his/her inner path - processes of self-knowledge and nearness to God following the old holy tradition: "Know yourself and you know your Lord".
How can you combine Sufism with the 'Western' way of life?
In Sufism, daily life is a challange to develop the heart and the soul. The follower seeks to recognize and praise God in all aspects of His creation - while interacting with humans and with nature, in the family as well as in business. Since most of the Sufi orders spreading out in the West strive for integration in society, their members are not noticable by special clothing or behaviour.
Can I practice Sufism alone?
The practices of the individual orders are directed towards different spiritual goals and inner experiences. Some of these practices can be performed by anyone, supporting his personal development for a certain time. However, Sufi excercises without the guidance and protection of a Sheikh is not recommended, it may even turn out to be harmful. The Sufi Path is like a high mountain range which cannot be crossed safely without a guide.
What do we need the community for?
The community (umma) plays an important role in Islam and Sufism. It offers closeness and security, uphold and support in critical phases. Social learning within the group aids each individual in purifying the heart and improving his own character. E.g., a Sufi tries to correct a fault he/she remarks in another within him/herself - according to the traditional saying "the believer is a mirror for the believer".
In Sufism, daily life is a challange to develop the heart and the soul. The follower seeks to recognize and praise God in all aspects of His creation - while interacting with humans and with nature, in the family as well as in business. Since most of the Sufi orders spreading out in the West strive for integration in society, their members are not noticable by special clothing or behaviour.
Can I practice Sufism alone?
The practices of the individual orders are directed towards different spiritual goals and inner experiences. Some of these practices can be performed by anyone, supporting his personal development for a certain time. However, Sufi excercises without the guidance and protection of a Sheikh is not recommended, it may even turn out to be harmful. The Sufi Path is like a high mountain range which cannot be crossed safely without a guide.
What do we need the community for?
The community (umma) plays an important role in Islam and Sufism. It offers closeness and security, uphold and support in critical phases. Social learning within the group aids each individual in purifying the heart and improving his own character. E.g., a Sufi tries to correct a fault he/she remarks in another within him/herself - according to the traditional saying "the believer is a mirror for the believer".
