Debunking the myth of polytheism and revealing the true essence of Sufism
In recent years, there has been a significant amount of discourse on social media and among scholars regarding the relationship between Sufism and Salafism. While both groups fall within the broad spectrum of Islam, each has its own approach to the practice of faith, understanding of Islamic traditions, and the pursuit of spirituality. One of the most persistent misconceptions that has emerged in this discourse is the belief that Sufism, as practised by many, represents a form of polytheism, or shirk. This misconception has been exacerbated by certain extreme or unorthodox practices that some individuals claim to be Sufi in nature. However, this article seeks to clarify that true Sufism is deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam, profoundly monotheistic, and stands far apart from the distorted practices often depicted in social media and some fringe groups.
To begin with, it is essential to define the core principles of both Sufism and Salafism and to address the reasons behind the tension between them. Sufism, in its essence, is not a sect or an innovation but rather a spiritual path within Islam aimed at the purification of the soul and achieving closeness to Allah (God). Sufis strive to embody the qualities of sincerity, humility, patience, and love for Allah. On the other hand, Salafism is a term used to describe a return to the practices of the earliest generations of Muslims, specifically the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the two generations that followed them. Salafis emphasize a strict, literal interpretation of the Qur’an and Hadith, adhering to the foundational texts without innovation or deviation.
The Misconception: Sufis Are Not Monotheists
One of the most serious misconceptions that has been widely propagated is the claim that Sufism inherently encourages polytheism (shirk) and that Sufis are not true monotheists. This claim arises from the belief that some Sufi practices, such as seeking the intercession of saints or venerating the graves of Sufi masters, involve invoking other than Allah, which contradicts the central tenet of Islamic monotheism (Tawhid).
What Is Tawhid?
Tawhid, the concept of the absolute oneness of Allah, is the core principle of the Islamic faith. Every Muslim, whether Sufi or Salafi, affirms this belief. Allah says in the Qur’an: “Say, ‘He is Allah, [Who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.’” (Qur’an 112:1–4).
In both Sufism and Salafism, the belief in Tawhid is non-negotiable and absolute. However, the difference between the two often lies in how this belief is practically applied and understood, particularly regarding the veneration of saints or the intermediaries in the spiritual world.
The Essence of True Sufism
At its core, Sufism is a means to achieve closeness to Allah. The Sufi journey is one of spiritual purification and seeking Allah’s pleasure through acts of worship, remembrance (dhikr), and contemplation. A true Sufi does not believe in the divinity of anyone other than Allah, nor do they believe that anyone has the power to intercede with Allah except through His will. This is the first point of distinction that needs to be made clear: True Sufism does not advocate polytheism or the worship of anyone other than Allah.
There are certain practices within Sufism, such as visiting the graves of righteous individuals (Awliya), but these acts are not meant to imply worship of the deceased. Instead, they are a means of showing respect for the piety and virtues of the righteous, seeking inspiration from their life and actions, and asking Allah to accept the intercession of these individuals by His will, not as a deity themselves. The Qur’an makes clear that seeking intercession from Allah’s will is permissible, as long as it does not compromise the belief in Tawhid.
Allah says in the Qur’an: “And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by sin], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins – and who can forgive sins except Allah?” (Qur’an 3:135)
The concept of intercession is explicitly discussed in both the Qur’an and Hadith, and the intercession of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a well-established belief among all Muslims. Therefore, when Sufis seek intercession through the righteous, they do so with the understanding that the power of intercession is ultimately in the hands of Allah.
The Real Sufi Path: Love, Devotion, and Monotheism
Sufism has a long history of producing some of Islam’s greatest scholars and thinkers, such as Imam Al-Ghazali, Ibn Arabi, Rumi, and many others, who have consistently emphasized the monotheistic foundation of their beliefs. These great figures have taught that the ultimate goal of the Sufi path is to achieve a deeper love and understanding of Allah, purifying one’s heart from worldly distractions, and embodying the attributes of Allah in one’s behaviour and actions.
The Qur’an itself encourages reflection, self-purification, and remembrance of Allah (dhikr), which are central practices in Sufism: “Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.” (Qur’an 13:28)
Moreover, the Hadiths also emphasize the importance of loving Allah and striving to be close to Him. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Allah said: ‘I am as My servant thinks I am. If he thinks well of Me, then he will find that; and if he thinks ill of Me, then he will find that.’” (Sahih Muslim)
In Sufism, love for Allah is often described as a transformative force that transcends the ordinary bounds of worship, guiding individuals toward deeper spiritual awareness and closeness to the Creator. This love is not contrary to Tawhid; rather, it reinforces it. Sufis express their devotion to Allah not through physical acts of worship alone, but through their internal state of submission, humility, and surrender to the Divine.
Dispelling Misconceptions Highlighted on Social Media
It is undeniable that social media has played a role in the spread of misconceptions and misrepresentations of both Sufism and Salafism. Distorted practices, such as excessive veneration of saints, ritualistic behaviour, or exaggerated claims of spiritual powers, have been showcased on various platforms, leading many to wrongly associate these behaviours with Sufism as a whole.
However, it is important to distinguish between these aberrant practices and true Sufism. True Sufism, as outlined by the great Islamic scholars, is rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith and is not concerned with the worship of anything other than Allah. Practices such as seeking blessings from a saint’s tomb or asking for their intercession should not be conflated with the belief that these figures have independent powers apart from Allah. The Sufi path is meant to guide individuals toward a deeper, more profound connection with Allah, not to encourage any form of shirk or polytheism.
The key to understanding Sufism is to engage with its classical texts, the works of scholars, and the genuine practices of spiritual masters who have adhered to the principles of Islam in their most profound form. The actions of individuals or groups who deviate from these principles should not define an entire spiritual tradition.
A Call for Unity and Mutual Understanding
It is time for both Salafis and Sufis to come together in the pursuit of the shared goal of worshipping Allah and living according to the authentic teachings of Islam. While there are differences in approach, both groups are fundamentally united in their love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and their belief in the oneness of Allah. By fostering mutual understanding and respect, it is possible to bridge the gap between Sufism and Salafism.
To the Salafis, I invite you to recognize that true Sufism is not about polytheism, nor is it a deviation from the fundamental principles of Islam. The true Sufi path is one of deeper devotion, humility, and a refined understanding of the oneness of Allah. Sufism offers a way to purify the heart, cultivate spiritual awareness, and strengthen one’s relationship with Allah.
By emphasizing commonalities, engaging in respectful dialogue, and focusing on the core principles of Tawhid and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), both Sufis and Salafis can unite under the banner of true Islam, rejecting miscommunications and misunderstandings. The ultimate goal is not to perpetuate divisions but to strive together for the pleasure of Allah, who is the Most Merciful and the Most Forgiving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the misconception that Sufism is inherently polytheistic is a distortion of the true teachings of Islam. Sufism, at its heart, is a path of intense devotion, love, and remembrance of Allah, and it stands in harmony with the monotheistic foundation of Islam. While social media and certain individuals have exaggerated or misrepresented some practices as being part of Sufism, it is critical to separate these fringe elements from the true Sufi tradition.
Both Sufism and Salafism share the ultimate goal of achieving closeness to Allah, and we must come together to foster understanding and respect. I extend an open invitation to Salafis to explore the true essence of Sufism, a path of profound spirituality, love, and devotion, rooted deeply in the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Together, let us walk the path of truth, unity, and monotheism, in service to Allah alone.
Er Naseer Ahmad Bhat
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