Islamic Mysticism: A History of Controversies and Debates
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Frederick de Jong, Bernd Radtke (eds.), Islamic Mysticism Contested. Thirteen Centuries of Controversies and Polemics
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions� publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales�)
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Subtitle: Leyde, E. J. Brill, 1999, xii + 829 p. (index) (coll. “Islamic History and Civilization. Studies and Texts�, 29)
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This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Françoise Aubin
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly�)
Full text available for: Frederick de Jong, Bernd Radtke (eds.), Islamic Mysticism Contested. Thirteen Centuries of Controversies and Polemics
Year: 2001 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.437
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
The text discusses the edited volume "Islamic Mysticism Contested: Thirteen Centuries of Controversies and Polemics," which compiles insights from thirty-three authors exploring the opposition faced by Sufi mysticism over a millennium. The co-editors argue that critiques of Sufism have existed since the early Islamic period and continue to this day, often stemming from theological disagreements and political power struggles. The volume highlights the complex interplay between supporters of Sufism and various factions opposing it, illustrating that these tensions are deeply rooted in Islamic history.
2) The Dynamics of Sufi and Anti-Sufi Relations
One central theme in the volume is the duality inherent in the relationship between Sufism and its detractors. The authors note that opposition to Sufism has not always been clear-cut. For instance, early movements such as Mu’tazila and Zaydiyya initially shared similarities with Sufi traditions. However, as theological and political distinctions emerged, the oppositional stance crystallized, with hostility growing over time, particularly during periods of political strife or governance shifts. This nuance demonstrates how both mysticism and its opposition grew in tandem, complicating the narrative surrounding the two groups.
3) Historical Contexts of Controversy
The text sheds light on the historical contexts that precipitate controversies surrounding Sufism. In regions like the Ottoman Empire and during colonial periods in places such as India and Africa, Sufi orders often played significant political roles, sometimes leading to their persecution—though not always based solely on doctrinal differences. The establishment of Sufism as a political tool sometimes led to conflict both within the Islamic community and against external authorities. Such contexts reveal how Sufism's fluidity allowed it to adapt to various socio-political landscapes while simultaneously drawing opposition from reformist and fundamentalist movements.
4) The Influence of Governance on Sufi Practices
Another important aspect discussed is the influence of governmental authority on Sufi practices. For example, states often sought to co-opt Sufi orders for their socio-political agendas while also applying pressures that could lead to their institutionalization or transformation into bureaucratic entities. Examples from the 20th century in Egypt illustrate how government policies pushed Sufi orders to conform to state expectations, often undermining their spiritual autonomy. This interaction between Sufi mysticism and state forces highlights the precarious balance Sufi groups must maintain amidst external pressures, shaping their practices and beliefs.
5) Conclusion
In conclusion, "Islamic Mysticism Contested" offers a comprehensive overview of the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Sufi mysticism through an extensive collection of essays. The persistent debates surrounding the legitimacy and role of Sufism within the broader Islamic tradition underline the complexity of these religious dynamics. By examining the myriad ways Sufism has been contested, the volume not only signifies the ongoing relevance of these discussions but also emphasizes the importance of understanding the rich contexts in which these religious interactions occur. This work ultimately invites further inquiry into the intricate relationship between mysticism, orthodoxy, and politics in Islam.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main theme of Islamic Mysticism Contested?
The book explores the opposition faced by Sufi mysticism over the centuries, highlighting controversies and polemics across various Islamic traditions.
Who are the editors of Islamic Mysticism Contested?
The volume is edited by Frederick de Jong and Bernd Radtke, featuring contributions from thirty-three authors with diverse academic backgrounds.
What is the historical context of the Sufi mysticism discussed?
The book examines Sufi mysticism from its formative stages in early Islam to contemporary debates, revealing ongoing conflicts with religious authorities.
How does the book address the opposition to Sufism?
It presents perspectives from both Sufi adherents and their critics, discussing ideological tensions and political motivations behind anti-Sufi movements.
What methodologies are used in Dianteill's work on Afro-Cuban religions?
Dianteill employs an integrated approach through initiation into the religions studied, allowing deeper insight into their social and cultural context.
What religions are included in Dianteill's analysis of Afro-Cuban beliefs?
The analysis covers SanterĂa, Ifá, Palo Monte, and Spiritism, exploring their interconnectedness and shared cultural roots stemming from African traditions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Islamic Mysticism: A History of Controversies and Debates�. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Cult:
A cult represents a structured system of religious practices and beliefs centered around particular rituals and deities. Within the context, the term 'cult' often refers to Afro-Cuban religious systems, which include practices like SanterĂa and Palo Monte. These cults emerge from a blend of African traditions and local beliefs, demonstrating the evolution of spiritual expression and community identity in the face of societal dynamics.
2) Religion:
Religion encompasses the organized system of beliefs and practices that connect individuals to the divine or the sacred. It includes various elements such as rituals, moral codes, and community structures. The work discusses how different religions, particularly Afro-Cuban and Islamic mystical traditions, inform cultural identity and spiritual experience.
3) Anti (Amti):
The prefix 'anti-' refers to opposition or hostility towards a particular ideology or practice. Within the context of the text, it highlights the contentious relationship between anti-Sufi movements and Sufi practices, illustrating the dynamics of religious power and the strategies employed to undermine rival traditions.
4) Initiation:
Initiation is a significant process in many cults and religions, involving rituals that allow individuals access to deeper knowledge and secrets of the community. The inquiry discusses how the act of initiation into Afro-Cuban religions serves as a mechanism for the researcher to gain firsthand experience and insight into the inner workings of these spiritual practices.
5) Mysticism:
Mysticism embodies the pursuit of direct communion with the divine or an ultimate reality. In the context of Islamic mysticism and Sufism, it represents the inner spiritual journey and the controversies that surround these practices. The text outlines the historical contestation of mysticism within religious thought and practice across cultures.
6) Spiritual:
The term 'spiritual' pertains to the non-material aspects of human experience, often linked to the pursuit of a deeper understanding of existence or the divine. It underlines the inner journeys individuals undertake within cults and religions as they navigate their beliefs and the communities around them.
7) Power:
Power in the context pertains to the dynamics of authority and influence within religious settings. It includes the political power of religious leaders and institutions, such as Sufi orders in Islamic history, and how these hierarchies shape the spiritual landscape and community engagements.
8) Civilization:
Civilization refers to the complex societies characterized by cultural and technological advancements. The text draws connections between religious practices, such as Sufi mysticism, and the broader historical contexts of civilizations where these traditions evolved, underscoring the interplay of culture and spirituality.
9) Experience:
Experience encapsulates the personal and communal engagement with religious practices, beliefs, and rituals. In the realm of mysticism and cults, subjective experiences shape understanding and the connection to spiritual outcomes and community belonging.
10) Evolution:
Evolution in this context signifies the development and transformation of religious beliefs and practices over time. The text presents how Afro-Cuban religions and Sufism have adapted and evolved in response to historical and cultural changes, reflecting the fluid nature of spirituality.
11) Secret (Secrecy, Secretly):
Secrecy denotes the hidden or exclusive aspects of religious practices meant for initiates. In the inquiry into Afro-Cuban religions, secrecy presents challenges for researchers seeking to understand the community wholly.
12) Egypt:
[see source text or glossary: #Egypt#]
13) India:
India serves as a significant backdrop for the exploration of mystical traditions, particularly Sufism, which has deep historical roots within the region. The evolution of Sufi practices in India illustrates the interaction of diverse cultural and religious influences.
14) Shumni (Sumni, Sunni):
Sunni Islam constitutes one of the two major branches of Islam, recognizing the authority of the Qur’an and Hadith. This connection emphasizes the broader contestation between Sufi and Sunni practices throughout Islamic history and highlights the ideological struggles that define these relationships.
15) White:
[see source text or glossary: #White#]
16) Black:
[see source text or glossary: #Black#]
17) Book:
A book in this context refers to the detailed scholarly works like the one edited by De Jong and Radtke, which compiles research on Sufism and its historical controversies. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of religious traditions and their contestations.
18) Four basic schools:
The 'four schools' of Islamic jurisprudence represent the different methodologies employed in understanding and interpreting Islamic law. This reference contextualizes the discussions on Sufi practices and examines how various legal schools regard mysticism and spirituality.
19) Sacred Art:
[see source text or glossary: #Sacred Art#]
20) Unconscious:
[see source text or glossary: #Unconscious#]
21) Reflection:
Reflection within religious studies often signifies the contemplative process through which individuals or communities engage with spiritual knowledge and experience. It is a crucial component for comprehending the nature and impact of mysticism and cult practices.
22) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the systematic study and analysis of phenomena, including the methodologies applied by researchers to understand religious systems. The work highlights the importance of a scientific approach in exploring the complexities of Afro-Cuban religions and their sociocultural contexts.
23) Withdrawal:
Withdrawal can pertain to the act of disengaging from social or cultural practices, often resulting in an internal reflection on beliefs. The text notes how some communities may experience a withdrawal from certain religious representations, marking a significant shift in spiritual expression.
24) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context encompasses the understanding gained through initiation and experience within religious traditions. It underscores the value of esoteric insights that guide both the individuals within the cult and the academic inquirer studying these systems.
25) Ignorance (Ignorant):
[see source text or glossary: #Ignorant#]
26) Scripture:
Scripture refers to the sacred texts of religions containing the foundational teachings and laws. The analysis discusses how scriptures in Sufi and mainstream Islamic thought offer different interpretations and influence spiritual practices.
27) Obsession:
Obsession describes an intense preoccupation with particular ideas or practices, which in religious contexts can manifest as fervent devotion or extreme views. The historical analysis of Sufi thought illustrates how obsession can guide persecution and conflict.
28) Richness:
Richness pertains to the depth and complexity of religious traditions and beliefs. The text highlights the richness of experience within Sufism and Afro-Cuban religions, which present multilayered concepts and practices that transcend singular interpretations.
29) External:
External signifies the outside perspective on a culture or tradition, often marked by misunderstanding. The text points to how external viewpoints on Afro-Cuban religions can misconstrue their practices due to cultural and religious biases.
30) Rhetoric (Rhetorical):
Rhetoric refers to the art of persuasion and discourse related to religious beliefs. The contributions in the work delve into the rhetoric surrounding anti-Sufi movements and the broader discourse in Islamic contexts, revealing the stratagems employed in religious contestations.
31) Critique:
Critique involves the critical assessment of beliefs, practices, or phenomena within religions. In the context of the text, critiques of Sufi traditions and Afro-Cuban religions are presented, highlighting the tensions and debates that shape spiritual understanding.
32) Dynasty:
Dynasty often refers to ruling families that shape political and cultural landscapes. The historical exploration of various dynasties in Islamic societies provides context for understanding the dynamics of religious practices and their evolution.
33) Havana:
Havana is the capital of Cuba and serves as the focal point for the inquiry into Afro-Cuban religions. The author’s experiences and observations in Havana illuminate the cultural significance and richness of these religious practices, marking their importance in Cuban identity.
34) Purity:
Purity often pertains to the idealized state referred to in religious contexts, representing a return to authentic practice. The text notes how movements within Islam and other religions evoke ideals of purity in reaction to contemporary practices.
35) Nature:
Nature relates to the inherent characteristics and essence of religious beliefs and practices. The study emphasizes how the nature of Afro-Cuban religions reflects a synthesis of different cultural influences, revealing their complex identities.
36) Danger:
Danger signifies the risks involved in practices perceived as heretical or threatening by societal norms. The analysis explores how certain mystical practices, particularly in the context of Sufism, were considered a danger to established religious order.
37) Indian:
[see source text or glossary: #Indian#]
38) Island:
Island denotes a geographical representation, in this case, referring to Cuba, where Afro-Cuban religions developed as a result of historical and social dynamics. It symbolizes the distinct cultural landscape that nurtured the formation of these unique religious systems.
39) Desire:
Desire expresses the intrinsic motivations behind individual engagement in religious practices. In exploring religiosity, the text notes how desire can often lead individuals to seek deeper spiritual experiences or connection within their cult.
40) China:
China represents the setting for significant developments in Islamic mysticism and the evolving dynamics of religious practices, including those influenced by Sufi traditions. The study highlights how cultural intersections shape spiritual experiences in distinct ways.
41) Roman (Roma):
[see source text or glossary: #Roman#]
42) Malay:
[see source text or glossary: #Malay#]
43) Colour (Color):
Color can symbolize the vibrancy and diversity of religious practices and expressions. The mention of color in the context examines how visual and artistic elements contribute to the understanding of sacred art within different religions.
44) Image:
Image refers to the representation of religious concepts, beliefs, or figures. The discussion regarding sacred art involves the representation of faith and how imagery impacts the perception of religious truth and tradition in various cultures.
45) Light:
[see source text or glossary: #Light#]
46) Limit (Limiting, Limited):
Limit suggests the boundaries within which practices are conducted or understood, particularly in terms of knowledge and access. The analysis acknowledges how limits can aid or hinder the understanding of sprawling religious traditions.
47) Agent:
[see source text or glossary: #Agent#]
48) Cutan:
[see source text or glossary: #Sudan#]
49) Sara (Shara):
[see source text or glossary: #Sara#]
50) Chad:
[see source text or glossary: #Chad#]
51) Palo:
Palo refers to Palo Monte, one of the Afro-Cuban religions rooted in Congolese traditions. The mention of Palo indicates the significance of such cults in understanding the dynamics of Afro-Cuban spirituality and their intricate relationships with other religious systems.
52) King:
King often represents authority within religions, especially concerning leaders who guide spiritual communities. The text discusses the historical interplay between kings and Sufi brotherhoods, illustrating how political power can shape religious practices.
53) Mind:
[see source text or glossary: #Mind#]
54) Hope:
[see source text or glossary: #Hope#]