1. What is Sufism?

Who are you, and how do you begin to know yourself and discover your true essence? The answer to these questions is what Sufism is all about. Practical Sufism is the "school of self-knowledge." In the same way that an apple seed has within itself the essential knowledge of developing a perfect apple, we have within ourselves the essential wisdom and knowledge of our humanity: Hazrat Pir states:

"Perhaps, the best way to describe Sufism is to say, it is the school of self-knowledge --- discovery of one's own reality. It teaches its students to discover their hidden talents and abilities; expand their perception; break the boundaries of limitation; and ultimately journey through the heavens of their being."

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2. Is Sufism a new religion?

No, Sufism is not a new religion. It has existed since the beginning of human history, for its seed lies within every human heart. Sufism is the essence of the Prophets' teachings. In each age, God has sent Prophets to lead people to the knowledge of Him. Each prophet has brought humanity a unique instruction to be learned and mastered in order to progress in the inward journey to "God."

The great ninth century Sufi, Bayazid Bastami, described the history of Sufism by stating:

“Its seeds were...set at the time of Adam, formed at the
time of Moses, and ripened at the time of Jesus.
In the time of Mohammad, they were made into pure wine.”

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3. What is the relationship between Sufism and Islam?

Sufism is commonly known as the mystical dimension of Islam. In fact, Sufism is the body, soul and spirit of Islam and so the two cannot be separated. "Islam" means submission, surrendering to the ultimate knowledge of God. The goal of Sufism is submission to God by way of Self-knowledge.

Indeed, Sufism is the essence of each and every religion. It teaches that if one cognizes his/her true identity, one cognizes God.

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4. Does one need to become a Muslim to follow the Sufi path?

No. Following a verse in the Qur'an ( 2:256 ), "Let there be no compulsion in religion," converting to Islam is neither required nor recommended. The M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi®, School of Sufism teaches stability, not change.

This means that since Sufism teaches the Reality of Religion, and the path to discovering this Reality is through self-cognition, then boundaries and categories that mankind has created to generate differences are not applicable to this path.

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5. How does one practice Sufism?

As the seeker puts into practice the instructions received from the Spiritual Teacher, through prayers, meditation, fasting, zikr, the realm of the heart becomes accessible.

The heart is the seat of knowledge in Sufism. This is why meditation in the heart is so crucial and important. As Hazrat Pir Nader Angha has said: 

“Know yourself, so that you know what is necessary for you."

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6. Why do we need a teacher to practice Sufism?

In order to travel to unknown lands, one needs a guide. Rumi, the renowned 13th century Sufi, stated: "Whoever travels without a guide needs two hundred years for a two days' journey."

On the journey of Self-knowledge, the seeker needs a teacher to whose care he/she is given so that by the teacher's guidance, he/she may overcome the obstacles of the journey and find the way to the source of knowledge within.

The spiritual teacher provides the guidance of one who's been there and knows the way to attaining purification and the highest wisdom. The spiritual teacher, called the “Pir,” (meaning “The Light of the Path”) illuminates the darkness to help seekers to find their way.

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7. How can one practice Sufism amidst the challenges of everyday life? Doesn't Sufism require a life of solitude (khalvat)?

The Sufi principle of khalvat refers to the solitude within. This solitude does not mean leading a life in isolation. Sufism teaches that life is full of love, beauty and hope. There is much wisdom and knowledge to achieve. We need to find a stable center and live a balanced life away from extremes.

Strength lies not in hiding from the temptations of the material world, but in understanding and withstanding them. The sanctuary of man is in his heart - this should be his refuge. This does not mean one should separate him/herself from society, but that he/she should not partake of their bad habits. This is what is known as Sufi solitude.

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8. What is the role of women in Sufism?

In Sufism, there is no gender identity. Sufism teaches that the soul has no gender, and that the biological classification of male or female has no significance spiritually. Sufism teaches that the intent of religion is the spiritual elevation of the individual, and so is above any notions of 'masculine' and 'feminine'.

With this gender equality, female practitioners of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi® School of Sufism enjoy the freedom of assuming any role available; and indeed, women serve as instructors, researchers, recite the Qur'an, lead zikr, teach meditation classes, and are active in all aspects of the School.

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9. How can I find out more information about Sufism?

There is much literature on the topic of Sufism. Please see M.T.O. Publications for a list of books, pamphlets, tapes, videos and CD's in several languages.

You can also send us an email at info@sufiassociation.org and we can assist you in finding more information.

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10. Are there classes nearby I can attend?

Yes, we have centers worldwide and throughout the United States . Sessions about Sufism, zikr, retreats, and meditation are available.
Please check our map for locations , types of classes offered, and the days and times.

The M.T.O. Sufi Association also has ongoing events in which you can participate.

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