Nimatullahi Tariqah
Etymology
The Nimatullahi Tariqah derives its name from its founder, Shah Nimatullah Wali (d. 1431), a Persian Sufi mystic. The term “Tariqah” (Arabic: طريقة, Turkish: Tarikat) translates to “path” or “way,” referring to the spiritual path one follows in Sufism.
Historical Background
The Nimatullahi Tariqah (Arabic: الطریقه النعمتللهی) originated as a Sunni Sufi order in the fourteenth century in southeast Iran. It transitioned to a Shi’i orientation during the fifteenth century. This shift mirrored various confluences in Islamic thought prevalent in the region around that time.
Spread and Expansion
In the mid-1970s, the order began to spread to Western countries, aligning with the broader diaspora of Islamic thought and spirituality. Its dissemination was facilitated by a growing interest in mysticism and spirituality, both within and outside of Muslim communities.
Core Beliefs and Practices
- Spiritual and Ethical Emphasis: The Nimatullahi Tariqah stresses the universal, spiritual, and ethical dimensions of Sufism and Islam.
- Shariah (Islamic Law): Observance of Shariah as a framework guiding adherents towards ethical living.
- Dhikr (Remembrance of God): Continuous practice of dhikr, or silent remembrance, especially while engaging in daily activities, conceptualized as a method to maintain spiritual awareness and connection with God.
Language Translations
- Arabic: الطریقه النعمتللهی
- Turkish: Nimetullahî Tarikatı
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- The Nimatullahi Sufi Order by Javad Nurbakhsh
- Munajat-e-Shah Nimatullah Wali by Shah Nimatullah Wali
- The Sufi Orders in Islam by J. Spencer Trimingham
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Nimatullahi Tariqah offers a unique blend of Sunni origins and later Shi’i influences. Emphasizing universal spiritual and ethical principles within the context of Islamic Sufism, it advocates for a life integrated with productive activity and constant remembrance of God. For those interested in the fusion of mysticism and everyday spirituality, the study of this tariqah presents compelling insights into the adaptable and enduring nature of Sufi orders across varied cultural and temporal landscapes.
