The
term used in the Islamic texts for Sufism is Tasawwuf. The origin of this term
is interpreted by Historians in different ways. Some believe that it is derived
from the term ṣafā, which in Arabic means "purity". According
to some scholars, it is derived from suf, meaning wool, referring to the coarse
woollen clothes worn by the Sufis. And, some historians derive sufism or
Tasawwuf from suffa, that is, the platform outside the Prophet Mohammad’s
mosque, where a group of close followers assembled to learn about Islam.
The Sufi movement was a socio-religious movement, which
stood against the growing materialism in religious institutions. The Sufis did
not attach importance to namaz, hajj and celibacy. The union of the human
soul with God through love and devotion was the essence of the teachings of the
Sufi Saints. So, the term Sufism is synonymous to the ideology which believes
that purity of thought and conduct would draw us closer to the God. The Sufis
emphasised on seeking salvation through intense devotion and love for God by
following His commands, and following the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad
whom they regarded as a perfect human being.
The
best part of the sufi movement was the idea to inculcate a humanistic attitude
amongst people. They had spread the message of social and religious equality
and harmony. This message of love and harmony makes the ideology of sufism
meaningful even today.
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