Tasawwuf (Sufism)

This is the old name given to the way of the Sufi mystics, particularly characteristic of the zuhd (austerity) and faqr (poverty) stages in development. Tasawwuf indicates not only renunciation of but also lack of desire for wealth and the superficial things of the world. There is no showiness or desire for recognition but perfect spiritual apathy, free from ties, when intellectual riches are laid aside, worldly riches are given away, there is no turning back. Not only does the Sufi possess nothing, he is possessed by nothing. Having left behind the unreal, he lives in the reality of complete dependence on God. Through purification there is attachment neither to outward nor inner activity; this leads to vision of God and a feeling of affinity with him. Inner purity leads to realization of moral ideals and values, not through rules and regulations or acquisition by instruction or exertion, but as is learned through experience.

The true Sufi is purified of all desire, is inwardly purified from wretchedness. His speech is never inadvertent, thoughtless or calumnious. His is radiant of mind, with eyes turned from the things of the world and he is fully instructed with truth.

According to Shaykh Abu Sa'id ibn Abi'l-Khayr, this is the last of 40 stations or maqamat the Sufi must possess for his journey on the path of Sufism to be acceptable.