Knowledge
In Sufism, knowledge is a light, a guide, and a purifier. It is essential not only for understanding divine truths but for safely navigating the spiritual journey. The ideal Sufi integrates outward scholarly knowledge with inward experiential wisdom, making the path not just emotional or ritualistic, but deeply conscious, rooted, and transformative.
In Sufism, knowledge (‘ilm) holds a deeply sacred and transformative role. But unlike purely academic or legalistic knowledge, Sufism emphasizes both outward (zāhir) and inward (bātin) knowledge, seeking to unite intellectual understanding with spiritual realization.
Here’s how knowledge is viewed in Sufism and why it’s important in Sufism:
Knowledge as a Path to God (Ma‘rifah)
In Sufism, knowledge is not just about collecting facts but about knowing God (ma‘rifah).
This deeper, experiential knowledge comes through spiritual practice, reflection, and divine unveiling (kashf).
Quote: Imam al-Ghazali said, “True knowledge is that which leads to the knowledge of God.”
Balance of Shari‘ah and Haqiqah
Sufis stress that true spirituality requires grounding in Islamic law (Shari‘ah).
Knowledge of the Qur’an, Hadith, and Fiqh ensures that spiritual practices remain authentic and rooted in orthodoxy.
From this foundation, the seeker can pursue haqiqah (the inner truth) without deviation.
Knowledge as Light (Nūr)
Sufis often describe divine knowledge as a light that illuminates the heart.
This light helps distinguish truth from falsehood, guiding the seeker through the complexities of the ego and the world.
Teacher–Student Relationship
In Sufism, knowledge is transmitted heart-to-heart through a chain of spiritual transmission called silsilah.
The Murshid (spiritual guide) imparts not just information, but also spiritual wisdom, discipline, and presence.
Self-Knowledge as a Gateway
A central Sufi maxim is: “He who knows himself, knows his Lord.”
This highlights the importance of introspective knowledge—understanding the self (nafs), its inclinations, and its purification.
Through self-awareness, one becomes more aware of God’s presence and one’s dependence on Him.
Protection from Deviation (ghair-sharia path)
Spiritual experiences can be powerful but also misleading if not guided by proper knowledge.
Sufi scholars like Junayd of Baghdad and al-Qushayri emphasized that spiritual knowledge must be aligned with the Qur’an and Sunnah to avoid innovation (bid‘ah) or delusion.
Khanqah Shah-e-Raza is true epitome of right balance of shariat, tariqat, haqeeqat & marifat. Our murshids have said and written extensively about the balance of these fundamental of sufism.