Sufism, often seen as the heart of Islam, has long been misunderstood and debated within the Muslim world. In this episode of Soul of Islam Radio, hosts Ahmad Sakaamini and Ihsan Torabi discuss the essence of Sufism—its origins, meaning, and relevance in today’s world.
The conversation begins with the etymology of the word “Sufism,” which is linked to concepts of purity, humility, and wisdom. While some associate it with the early companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ who lived in devotion, others connect it to the Arabic word Safa (purity) or even the Greek Sophia (wisdom). Regardless of its linguistic roots, Sufism is fundamentally about self-purification and deepening one’s connection to the Divine.
Historically, the formalization of Sufism as a discipline emerged as the Muslim world expanded, bringing material wealth and an increasing focus on external religious practices. This led to a shift where spiritual development—once organically integrated into daily life—needed to be preserved and systematized. Over time, this spiritual path became known as Tasawwuf or Tazkiyat al-Nafs (purification of the self), ensuring that the inward dimension of Islam was not lost.
At its core, Sufism aligns with the ultimate purpose of Islam: enlightenment and awakening. The practice centers on dhikr (remembrance of God), which is considered a vital way to purify the heart and transcend the ego. Ihsan emphasizes that Islam, in its early days, placed significant importance on spiritual refinement before formal rules of practice were even established. Today, however, many focus on legalistic aspects of religion while neglecting the inner transformation it aims to inspire.
The episode also addresses the misconceptions surrounding Sufism. Some criticize it for diverging from traditional Islamic teachings, while others mistakenly believe it requires abandoning the material world. In reality, Sufism teaches balance—engaging with life without attachment and maintaining spiritual awareness while fulfilling worldly responsibilities. The hosts also discuss the dangers of ego-driven interpretations of Sufism, which can lead to cult-like behaviors or elitism, contradicting its true essence of humility and selflessness.
Looking ahead, Ihsan argues that the world needs spiritual transformation now more than ever. The modern age, dominated by materialism and ego-driven conflicts, desperately lacks the inner peace and self-awareness that Sufism cultivates. He stresses that true leadership should be rooted in spiritual wisdom, not power or self-interest. The transformation of individuals through Tasawwuf, he suggests, could lead to a more harmonious and just society.
For those interested in integrating Sufism into daily life, the advice is simple: commit to daily reflection, meditation, and remembrance of God. The journey of spiritual awakening is open to all who seek it sincerely. As the hosts conclude, returning to Islam’s essence—its spiritual core—may be the key to personal and collective renewal.
