Islamic Mysticism

ABDĀL (ابدال‎)
Explore the concept of 'ABDĀL' in Islamic tradition, its theological significance, and its implications for understanding the world's spiritual framework.
AD-DURRATU ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ (الـدرة البيضاء‎) in Islamic Mysticism
Learn about the term 'AD-DURRATU ʾL-BAIẓĀʾ,' its implications and usage in Ṣūfī thought. Understand the concept of the first intelligence in Islamic mysticism and its significance.
Al-Baqi
The Everlasting One - One of the ninety-nine special names of God in Islam
AL-ḤAQĪQATU ʾL-MUḤAMMADĪYAH (الحقيقة المحمدية)
Explore the concept of AL-ḤAQĪQATU ʾL-MUḤAMMADĪYAH, its origins, interpretations, and significance in Islamic mysticism. Understand the varying perspectives between Ṣūfī mystics and other Islamic schools of thought.
Al-Ḥaẓarātu ʾL-K͟hams in Sufism
Explore the concept of Al-Ḥaẓarātu ʾL-K͟hams (الحضرات الخمس‎) in Sufi mysticism. Learn about its five divine existences and their significance.
al-Insān al-Kāmil
Term in Islamic mysticism referring to the 'Perfect Human'. Initially attributed to Prophet Muhammad, adopted later by Sufi teachers.
Alawis
A secretive Shii school of thought located in northwestern Syria, emphasizing the absolute oneness of God and allegorical interpretation of religious texts.
An-Nujabāʾ in Sufism
Discover the concept of 'An-Nujabāʾ,' its etymology, and importance in Sufi tradition. Learn how these saintly figures serve the spiritual and worldly needs of people.
Ascetic
A person who renounces worldly comforts to undertake specific practices such as fasting, seclusion, and night prayer vigils to discipline selfishness and curb temptation
Baqa
Abiding or remaining in God, a state achieved following annihilation of the self in Sufi practice.
BĀRIQAH (بارقة‎) in Sufism
Explore the concept of BĀRIQAH in Sufism, its etymology, spiritual significance, and role in the enlightenment journey of a true Muslim. Learn about the transformative power of this initial refulgence of the soul.
Dasuqi Tariqah
A Sufi order founded in Egypt by Ibrahim ibn Abi al-Majd al-Dasuqi, emphasizing inner purity, self-denial, and strict adherence to Sharia.
Dhul-Nun al-Misri
A renowned Egyptian Sufi poet, scholar, and mystic known for his contributions to early Sufi thought and mysticism.
Farid al-Din Attar
Persian mystic poet known for his allegorical and mystical works including the famous 'Conference of the Birds'.
Haqiqah al-Muhammadiyyah
The Muhammadan Reality - a key concept in Islamic mysticism describing the primordial essence and model of creation.
Hurufis
Mystical Sufi order founded in fourteenth-century Iran, offering unique beliefs on divine revelation and numerical mysticism.
Ibn al-Farid, Umar
Celebrated Arab poet, mystic, and saint known for his mystical poetry expressing the beauty and love of God.
Ibn Idris, Ahmad
Moroccan Sufi teacher and founder of the Idrisi tradition, known for his antiauthoritarian approach and emphasis on individual duty to seek God.
Ilm al-Huruf
The mystical numerological process assigning numerical values to Arabic letters to infer hidden meanings within the Quran.
Iradah
Desire in Sufism; refers to the soul's journey towards God and the discipline within a Sufi order.
Ishq
Intense passion or love, notably in Sufi thought, regarded as a crucial stage in the journey towards union with God or the Prophet Muhammad.
Khanaqah
A Sufi meetinghouse where devotees engage in spiritual practices and communal rituals.
MABNĀ ʾT-TAṢAWWUF (مبنى التصوف‎) - Foundation of Sufism
Explore the term 'MABNĀ ʾT-TAṢAWWUF (مبنى التصوف‎),' its etymology, principles, and its significance in Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam.
Mahmud Shabestari
Persian mystic poet and scholar famous for his mystical poem 'Golshan-i Raz'.
MĀʾU ʾL-QUDS (ماء القدس‎) - Holy Water in Sufism
Explore the term 'MĀʾU ʾL-QUDS' (ماء القدس‎), its meaning, significance, and usage in the Sufi Islamic tradition. Learn how this concept influences spiritual practice and moral discipline among Sufis.
MUḤĀẒARAH
Explore the term 'MUḤĀẒARAH,' its spiritual significance in Sufism, and its usage in relation to the practice of Ẕikr. Understand how this concept facilitates deeper spiritual connection and contemplation of God's attributes.
Mulḥaq in Sufism
Explore the term 'Mulḥaq,' its etymology, and its profound significance in Sufism, particularly in describing the esoteric connection between the human soul and the divine essence.
Murīd (مريد‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Role in Sufi Tradition
Explore the term 'Murīd,' its meanings, and significance within Sufi mysticism. Learn about the journey and responsibilities of a Murīd and their relationship with their spiritual guide or Murshid.
Musāmarah in Sufism
Explore the term 'Musāmarah,' its origins, and its unique role in Sufi practice and Islamic mysticism, where it signifies God's intimate discourse with the heart of a believer.
Mushāhadah (مشاهدة‎)
Explore the concept of 'Mushāhadah' in Islamic mysticism, its etymology, significance, and how it pertains to spiritual enlightenment in Sufism.
Ruzbihan Baqli
Ruzbihan Baqli, a notable Persian Sufi known for his ecstatic visionary life and comprehensive writings on Sufi expressions of ecstasy.
Shattari Tariqah
An influential Sufi order in India and Indonesia, founded in the fifteenth century and known for incorporating Hindu and yogic elements.
Silsilah
Formal chain of spiritual descent in Islamic mysticism (Sufism), detailing the transmission of ritual from original teacher to students.
Sirr
Mystery, secret, or the innermost part of the heart in Islamic mysticism.
Sufism in America
The manifestation and history of various Sufi orders in America
Sukr
A stage of mystical or spiritual development characterized by ecstasy and loss of discernment due to divine love in Islamic mysticism.
Tabaqah
A cell in a Sufi hospice used for meditation, contemplation, and lodging
The Night Journey (al-Isra and Laylat al-Miraj)
The historical and spiritual journey undertaken by Prophet Muhammad from the Great Mosque in Mecca to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem and subsequently his ascension into heaven.
Wahdat al-Shuhud
Oneness of appearance, an Islamic mystical doctrine distinguishing from the Oneness of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud), primarily propagated by Indian Sufi Ahmad al-Sirhindi.
Wird
A form of devotion or liturgical practice specific to a particular Sufi order.
HAWĀ (هـوا‎)
Explore the term 'HAWĀ,' its etymology, implications in Islamic mysticism, and how it is used to describe unholy desires. Understand how this concept is addressed by Ṣūfī mystics.
Nūru ʾl-Anwār
Explore the term 'Nūr al-Anwār,' its profound implications, and its rich usage in Islamic mystical traditions. Understand its relation to the Divine Being and its significance in Sufi terminology.
UMANĀʾ (امناء‎) in Sufism
Explore the term 'UMANĀʾ (امناء‎),' its implications, and usage within the Sufi tradition. Understand its relationship with piety, humility, and the concept of Malāmatīyah.
Lailatuʾr-Raghāʾib - Definition, Etymology, and Observance in Islam
Explore the significance of 'Lailatuʾr-Raghāʾib' (ليلة الرغائب) in Islam, its etymological roots, rituals, and scholarly perspectives. Learn why it is observed by certain groups and generally rejected by orthodox Sunnis.
Ṣūfīism Adapted to Muḥammadanism - Principles, Practice, and Significance
An in-depth exploration of how Ṣūfīism, or Ṣūfī mysticism, is adapted to the teachings of Islam. Understand the principles, key concepts, and practices that bridge Ṣūfīism with traditional Islamic beliefs.
Sakinah
Sakinah represents the presence or peace of God, associated with divine support, piety, and mystical illumination in Islamic tradition.
Tariqah
Tariqah refers to the Sufi order or spiritual regimen of a specific teacher or master, encompassing devotional practices, recitations, and literature of piety.
ʿIlm al-Taṣawwuf
Explore the study of ʿIlm al-Taṣawwuf, its etymology, and its profound significance in Islamic mysticism (Sufism). Understand the nature of ʿIlm al-Taṣawwuf, its historical development, and its role in the spiritual life of Muslims.
Ahmad al-Qushashi
Ahmad al-Qushashi: Sufi mystic and scholar influential in therology and mystical interpretations of hadith.
Dabūr (دبور‎)
Discover the term 'Dabūr,' its implications in Ṣūfī teachings, and its influence on Islamic thought. Understand what 'Dabūr' represents and its impact on spiritual practices.
Waḥdatu ʾl-Wujūd (وحدة الوجود) in Sufism
Discover the concept of 'Waḥdatu ʾl-Wujūd,' its philosophical implications in Islamic mysticism, particularly within Sufism. Understand the theological debates surrounding this term and its impact on Islamic thought.
Hawājis in Sufism
Learn about the term 'Hawājis,' its meaning, and its importance in Sufi mysticism. Discover how Hawājis are perceived and addressed in the Sufi spiritual journey.
Kitmān
Discover the term 'Kitmān,' its meaning, applications, and significance within the Islamic and mystical traditions. Learn how 'kitmān' has been perceived and practiced, along with its ethical and theological implications.
The Perfect Man in Sūfī Spiritualism - Analysis by E. H. Palmer
Explore the concept of 'The Perfect Man' in Sūfī spiritualism, as discussed by the late Professor E. H. Palmer. Understand the qualities, roles, and teachings associated with this ideal in Sufism.
Bast
A profound involuntary spiritual state in Sufism where one feels the divine presence directly.
Naqib
A guardian in Sufi orders responsible for ritual liturgy and directing music
ḤAQQU ʾL-YAQĪN
Explore the meaning, origins, and significance of the term 'ḤAQQU ʾL-YAQĪN' in Islamic mysticism. Understand its implications for the Ṣūfī mystics and how it reflects the seeker’s relationship with the divine essence.
Idrisi Tariqah
A Sufi order and its various branches established by the followers and descendants of Ahmad ibn Idris.
Jabarūt in Islamic Mysticism
Explore the term 'Jabarūt,' its implications, and its role in Sufi mysticism. Understand what the concept of power and omnipotence means in the spiritual journey of a Ṣūfī.
Fanāʾ (فناء‎) in Sufism
Explore the term 'Fanāʾ (فناء‎),' its meaning, implications, and its role in the Sufi path towards spiritual enlightenment. Understand the stages of Fanāʾ and how it culminates in the ultimate union with the Divine.
Faqīr (فقير)
Understand the term 'Faqīr,' its historical and spiritual significance, different classifications, and the rich traditions associated with this important concept in Islamic mysticism.
Hawājim in Sufism
Explore the term 'Hawājim,' its etymology, and significance in Sufism. Understand the concept of unsolicited thoughts and their impact on the mystical journey of Sufi practitioners.
Majẕūb in Sufism
Explore the term 'Majẕūb,' its etymology, and its significance in Sufism. Understand the characteristics of a Majẕūb and the unique spiritual journey they undertake.
Taṣawwuf
Explore the concept of Taṣawwuf, its doctrines, and its significance in the Islamic mystical tradition. Learn about the origins, practices, and contributions of Taṣawwuf to Islamic spiritual life.
YĀ SĪN (يا سين‎)
An exploration of the term 'YĀ SĪN,' its etymology, mystical interpretations, and its role and significance within Islamic tradition, especially in the context of the Quran.
ʿIshq (عشق‎)
Explore the concept of 'ʿIshq,' its etymology, and its profound meaning in Islamic mysticism and theology. Understand the distinction between 'ʿIshq' and 'ḥubb,' the types of love in Islamic thought, and its importance in the spiritual journey.
AL-KANZU ʾL-MAK͟HFĪ (الكنز المخفى): Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Sufism
Explore the profound Sufi concept of 'AL-KANZU ʾL-MAK͟HFĪ,' its implications, and its significance in Islamic mysticism. Understand how this term captures the essence and personality of God according to Sufi thought.
INZIʿĀJ (انزعاج‎) in Sufi Mysticism
Explore the term 'INZIʿĀJ (انزعاج‎),' its implications, and usage in Sufi mysticism. Understand how this concept relates to the movement and excitement of the heart towards God.
An-Naqshbandīyah (النقشبندية‎)
Explore the Naqshbandīyah, an influential Sufi order, its origins, practices, and its impact on Islamic spirituality. Understand the significance of the Ẕikr-i-K͟hafī, the silent religious devotion, within this Sufi tradition.
Bī-Sharʿ (بى شرع‎)
Explore the term 'Bī-Sharʿ,' its implications, and its significance in Islamic mysticism. Understand who are referred to as Bī-Sharʿ and their stance toward the teachings of the Qur’an.
Chishti Tariqah
One of the most popular Sufi brotherhoods of South Asia founded by Muin al-Din Chishti, known for its emphasis on poverty, musical culture, and deep spiritual relationships.
Himmah (همة‎)
Explore the concept of 'Himmah' in Islamic tradition, its importance in Sufi mysticism, and its role in fostering spiritual growth and determination.
Islamic Exorcism: Commanding the Genii in Classical Texts
Explore the classical Islamic method of summoning genii for exorcism including the rituals, calculations, and specific invocations involved.
K͟HĀT̤IR (خـاطـر‎)
Explore the term 'K͟HĀT̤IR,' its etymology, and multifaceted significance in Islamic mysticism. Understand the different kinds of K͟hāt̤ir and their implications as described by mystic teachers.
Qalandar (قلندر‎)
Learn about the term 'Qalandar,' its implications, and its significance in Islamic traditions. Understand the role of Qalandars, their way of life, and their impact on Sufi traditions in Islam.
Al-Insān al-Kāmil - Definition, Etymology, and Role in Sufism
Explore the term 'Al-Insān al-Kāmil,' its profound implications in Islamic mysticism, and its usage by Ṣūfī scholars. Understand the concept through classical texts and its relevance in Sufi thought.
Ḥulūl in Sufism
Explore the meaning, origins, and spiritual significance of the term 'Ḥulūl' in Sufism. Understand its implications on the concept of divine presence within the human soul.
Shadhili Tariqah
Shadhili Tariqah, one of the four oldest Sufi orders in the Muslim world, founded by Abu al-Hasan Ali al-Shadhili in the twelfth century.
Bektashi Tariqah
The Bektashi Tariqah is a Sufi order founded in the thirteenth century in Anatolia by Hajji Bektash Veli, with significant historical, cultural, and spiritual impact.
The Sūfī Journey: A Metaphorical Expedition to Divine Union
Understand the Sūfī concept of human life as a journey toward divine union. Explore the stages and terminology involved in this spiritual quest, and learn about key texts and rituals associated with Sūfīsm.
Junayd, al- Abu al-Qasim ibn Muhammad
Early Sufi shaykh regarded as the founder of several tariqahs and a master of ‘sober’ Sufism.

Dictionary of Islam

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