The Origins of Sufism and Its Spread to India

The Origins of Sufism

• The word “Sufi” originates from the Arabic word “Suf” which means “wool” or “woollen”.
• Sufi saints are often depicted wearing woolen clothes, and they are often called "Fakirs."
• Another meaning of "Suf" is "Safa" meaning "pure", which has also been attributed to the origin of Sufism.
• Sufism emerged in the 12th century as a mystical, devotional, and spiritual movement within Islam.
• Sufism arose in response to growing orthodoxy within Islam, similar to the rise of Bhakti movements within Hinduism.
• Sufism emphasizes the importance of a simple life and closeness to God through music, devotion, and love.
• Sufi Saints interpret the Quran from a spiritual perspective rather than a literal one.
• Music, while forbidden in Islam, is central to Sufi practices.

Sufism & its Spread to India

• Sufism originated in Persia (modern-day Iran).
• There are numerous Sufi orders called “Silsila” (meaning a chain or lineage).
• There are 12 major Sufi orders known to exist.
• Sufism entered India in the 12th century.
• Sufi practices like meditation, repentance, prayer, pilgrimage, fasting, and charity are key to Sufi life.
• Sufism spread in India through the teachings of Sufi masters like Sheikh Farid, Nizamuddin Auliya, and Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki.
• Sufism gained prominence in India due to its emphasis on simple living, compassion, and devotion, especially among oppressed groups.
• This emphasis contrasted with the earlier forceful conversion methods employed by Muslim invaders.

Major Orders of Sufism in India

• The four major Sufi orders in India are:
  • Chishti
  • Qadri
  • Suhrawardi
  • Naqshbandi
• The most liberal order in India was the Chishti order.

The Chishti Order and Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti

• Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as "Garib Nawaz," founded the Chishti Order in India.
• Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti was born in Sistan, a province in Persia bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• His journey into Sufism began with the influence of Ibrahim Qanaji, a Sufi master.
• Moinuddin Chishti met Khwaja Usman Harooni, another prominent Sufi master in Afghanistan, who greatly influenced his life.
• It is believed that Moinuddin Chishti visited Mecca and Medina, where he received a divine message to travel to India.
• He arrived in Ajmer, India despite not knowing where it was, and built a small dwelling.
• His teachings focused on devotion using music and meditation.
• During the time of Mohammed Ghori's invasion of India, Moinuddin Chishti provided shelter to many, earning the name "Garib Nawaz" (patron of the poor).
• He is believed to have helped people embrace Islam through his generous nature and teachings.
• His shrine in Ajmer became a center for Sufi practices and teachings.

Sufism's Impact on India

• Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's disciples like Baba Farid, Nizamuddin Auliya, and Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki played crucial roles in spreading Sufism across the Indian subcontinent.
• These disciples established their own shrines, the most prominent being the Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi.
• The propagation of Sufism heavily relied on the teachings of its masters, music, literature, and devotion.
• This popularity led to the conversion of many to Islam.

Sufism and its Distinctive Features

• Sufism is distinct from orthodox Islam, emphasizing a more mystical and spiritual approach to faith.
• Sufism focuses on the importance of "Sama," devotional music and dance, forbidden in orthodox Islam.
• Sufi practices like “Zikr” (chanting God's name) and “Ziyarat” (visiting Sufi saints' shrines) for blessings are not considered acceptable in orthodox Islam.
• Sufi poetry and literature, like the tales of Malik Muhammad Jaisi's “Padmavat,” reflect Sufi beliefs and practices.

Sufism's Continued Relevance in India

• Sufism continues to impact Indian culture, religion, and spirituality.
• The shrines of Sufi Saints like the Ajmer Sharif Dargah are visited by dignitaries like Indian Prime Ministers every year during the "Urs" celebrations.
• The legacy of Sufism can be seen in various religious traditions, including Sikhism, Hinduism, and even the Bhakti movement.

The Current Controversy Surrounding the Ajmer Sharif Dargah

• The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is currently facing controversy with claims that a Hindu temple existed there prior to the construction of the shrine.
• Some argue that the shrine was built on the site of a temple dedicated to Shiva, known as “Sankat Mochan Mahadev”.
• Evidence for this claim comes from the writings of British historians who claimed that there was a Shiva temple on what is now the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.
• The controversy stems from the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act of 1991, which mandates that any religious site existing before 1947 be maintained as per its original faith.
• The controversy mirrors similar debates surrounding other sites like the Gyanvapi Mosque and the disputed Babri Masjid.
• The Indian courts are currently tasked with resolving this issue, with a survey underway to determine the site's history and potential pre-existing structures.

Other Key Terms

• Maktubat: Compiled letters written by Sufi masters to their disciples, providing valuable insights into various teachings and spiritual practices.
• Malfuzat: A collection of conversations and sayings of Nizamuddin Auliya, a prominent Sufi saint.
• Mast Qalandar: A term often used to describe a Sufi saint who is devoted to God and exhibits signs of spiritual ecstasy.
• Syncratic Culture: This refers to the blending and fusion of different cultures and religious practices into a unique and hybrid cultural identity.
• Hindi Literature: Hindi literature, particularly during the Mughal era, was greatly influenced by Sufi themes and the practices of devotion and mysticism.

In Conclusion

• Sufism, originating in Persia, played a significant role in shaping Indian culture and religion, particularly through its emphasis on love, compassion, and spiritual practice.
• Sufi practices like devotional music and mystical teachings, although distinct from orthodox Islam, influenced other religions and cultures, contributing to a complex and diverse Indian cultural landscape.
• This influence is reflected in various aspects of Indian society, including art, literature, and social dynamics.
• The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a center of Sufi worship, is currently embroiled in a controversial debate surrounding its history and potential pre-existing structures of a Hindu temple.

This quiz explores the origins of Sufism, tracing its roots back to the 12th century and discussing its mystical practices. It also covers the spread of Sufism to India and the various Sufi orders. Test your knowledge on this essential aspect of Islamic spirituality and culture.