T̤ARĪQAH (طريقة)
Definition
T̤ARĪQAH (Arabic: طريقة) refers to a “path” or “way” within the context of Sufi Islam, denoting the spiritual journey and practices undertaken by an individual seeking closeness to God (Allah). T̤ARĪQAH encompasses a broad array of mystical and devotional paths, each associated with specific teachings, practices, and sometimes a distinct lineage of Sufi masters or guides.
Etymology and Translation
The term T̤ARĪQAH is derived from the Arabic root verb “طَرَقَ” (ṭaraqa), which means “to strike” or “to tread.” Metaphorically, it signifies walking a path or following a way. In Turkish, “T̤arīqa” is translated as “tarikat,” which similarly signifies a spiritual path or order within Sufism.
Significance in Sufi Islam
T̤ARĪQAH holds great importance in Sufi Islam as it embodies the methodology and practice through which believers seek to attain a deeper, more intimate connection with God. This path is characterized by:
- Initiation and Guidance: Adherents (referred to as Murids) are usually initiated by a spiritual guide or Sufi master (known as a Shaykh or Pir). The master-disciple relationship is central to the pursuit of spiritual goals.
- Rituals and Practices: Common practices include Dhikr (remembrance of God), meditation, recitation of poetry, music (Sama), and dance (such as the Whirling Dervishes of the Mevlevi order).
- Ethical Conduct: The journey involves purifying the heart and soul (Tazkiyah) from worldly attachments and unethical behaviors, emphasizing virtues such as humility, love, and service to others.
- Mystical Knowledge: The path aims to acquire spiritual knowledge (Marifa) beyond the outward ritualistic practices, often through intuitive and mystical experiences of God’s presence.
Key Sufi Orders
Several well-known T̤ariqahs include:
- Qadiriyyah: Founded by Abd al-Qadir al-Jilani, known for its emphasis on charity, humility, and rigorous adherence to Islamic law.
- Naqshbandiyyah: Founded by Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Bukhari, noted for its silent Dhikr and emphasis on adhering to the Prophet Muhammad’s practices.
- Chishtiyyah: Prominent in South Asia, emphasizing love, tolerance, and the importance of poetry and music in devotion.
- Mevleviyyah: Founded by Jalaluddin Rumi, famous for the practice of Sama (whirling dance) as a mystical expression of spiritual longing.
Recommended Books for Further Study
- “The Sufi Path of Love: The Spiritual Teachings of Rumi” by William C. Chittick.
- “The Shambhala Guide to Sufism” by Carl W. Ernst.
- “Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam” by Carl W. Ernst.
- “Early Sufi Women: Dhikr an-Niswa al-Muta’abbidat as-Sufiyyat” translated by Rkia E. Cornell.
Takeaways and Conclusion
T̤ARĪQAH (طريقة) is integral to Sufi Islam, signifying a spiritual path focused on achieving deeper communion with Allah through established rituals, ethical conduct, and the guidance of a spiritual master. It encompasses diverse orders each with unique practices and philosophies but shares the common goal of purifying the inner self and seeking eternal truth.
By adhering to a T̤ARĪQAH, Sufis endeavor to transcend the material world and achieve a state of unity and love with the Divine, profoundly enriching their spiritual lives and spreading messages of love, tolerance, and devotion.
