Sufis
A practitioners of the inner, mystical dimension of Islam
Real World Example
Sufis were members of a mystical Islamic tradition that emphasized the inward search for God and spiritual closeness through practices like meditation, prayer, and chanting. During the Muslim Civilizations from 620 to 1630, they played a critical role in spreading Islam through their missionary work and established important cultural centers that fostered arts, music, and poetry. Their emphasis on love, tolerance, and spiritual growth helped bridge cultural gaps and fostered unity among diverse communities. Today, the values of Sufism inspire people to seek inner peace and spiritual fulfillment beyond material success. A modern example is the popularity of Rumi, a 13th-century Sufi poet, whose writings on love and life continue to resonate with people seeking deeper meaning and connection in their lives.