Sufism in India
(Relevant for Historical section of General Studies Paper Prelims/Mains)
Sufism represents a mystical expression of Islam, characterized by its devotion to the spiritual quest for God while rejecting materialism.
This school of Islamic mysticism places a strong emphasis on asceticism and a profound dedication to divine worship.
Within the realm of Sufism, the cultivation of self-discipline is deemed indispensable for attaining a profound understanding of God through the faculties of perception.
In the early 12th century AD, a group of individuals in Persia turned to ascetic practices as a response to the increasing materialistic tendencies within the Caliphate. This group came to be known as the ‘Sufis.’
The Sufi movement first emerged in India around 1300 A.D., with its influence gradually extending to South India during the 15th century.
Sufism places significant importance on self-discipline as a fundamental prerequisite for attaining divine knowledge. In contrast to orthodox Muslims, who emphasize outward behaviour, Sufis prioritize inner spiritual purity.
Initially centered in Multan and Punjab, the Sufi movement later expanded to encompass regions such as Kashmir, Bihar, Bengal, and the Deccan.
The term ‘Sufi’ is probably derived from the Arabic ‘sufi’ word which means ‘one who wears wool’. This is because woolen clothes were generally associated with ascetics. Another possible origin of the word is ‘safa’ which means purity in Arabic.
Major Sufi Orders
Chisti:
The Chishtiya Order was established in India by Khwaja Moin-Uddin Chishti.
It highlighted the concept of the unity of being with God (waḥdat al-wujud), and its members were known for their commitment to pacifism.
Rejecting all material possessions as distractions from their contemplation of God, the adherents of this order maintained a detachment from worldly goods.
They also maintained a deliberate separation from involvement with secular political affairs.
Central to the Chishtī practice was the recitation of God’s names, both aloud and silently (dhikr jahrī, dhikr khafī).
The teachings of the Chishty Order were propagated and made popular by followers of Khwaja Moin-Uddin Chishti, such as Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki, Fareeduddin Ganj-e-Shakar, Nizam uddin Auliya, and Naseeruddin Charagh.
Suhrawardi Order:
- It was founded by Sheikh Shahabuddin Suharwardi Maqtul. The Suhrawardis, unlike the Chishtis, accepted maintenance grants from the Sultans.
Naqshbandi Order:
- It was founded by the Khwaja Baha-ul-din Naqsh band. In India, this order was established by Kawaka Bahauddin Naqshbandi.
- From the beginning, the mystics of this Order stressed on the observance of the Shariat.
Qadiriyya Order:
- It was popular in Punjab. Sheikh Abdul Qadir of Badaun founded it in the 14th century.
- They were supporters of the Mughals under Akbar.
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