What is taṣawwuf (Sufism)? Is it Islamic?

"Capability in crafts without direct engagement does not preclude eligibility. Preaching and teaching do not conflict with the title of Sufism if other characteristics, such as attire, cohabitation, and poverty, are present. It is acceptable to refer to someone as a "Sufi reciter," "Sufi preacher," or "Sufi scholar or teacher," but not as a "Sufi merchant" or "Sufi laborer."

"A question was asked about a sum of money bequeathed to the Sufis—who is it permissible to allocate it to? The response was: Sufism is an inner affair not outwardly discernible, making it impossible to judge by its essence but rather by visible criteria that locals use to apply the term Sufi. The general rule is that anyone whose presence in a Sufi khanqah and mingling with them is not deemed objectionable is included in their category."

"Then, as I was leaving, I heard him say, 'May Allah make you a hadith scholar who is Sufi, and not a Sufi who is a hadith scholar. This pointed out that whoever acquires hadith and knowledge and then embraces Sufism succeeds, but whoever embraces Sufism before knowledge risks himself." Now, if you wonder why theology and philosophy are not included in the categories of sciences, whether they are commendable or blameworthy, consider this: Whatever beneficial evidence is contained in theology can be found in the Quran and prophetic reports."

"The Prophet, peace be upon him, said, "Whoever endures hunger, their thoughts are magnified, and their heart is perceptive." The narrative "Whoever eats and sleeps, their heart becomes hard," followed by, "Indeed, for everything there is a purification, and the purification of the body is hunger," was reported by Ibn Majah from the narration of Abu Huraira, "For everything, there is a purification, and the purification of the body is fasting," though its chain is weak."

"It is recounted that a Sufi once encountered a monk and, hoping for his conversion to Islam, spoke to him about abandoning arrogance. The monk mentioned that Christ fasted for forty days, a miracle for prophets or saints. The Sufi challenged, "If I fast for fifty days, will you embrace Islam? The monk agreed. The Sufi fasted for fifty days, then continued to sixty."

"But if one cannot bear it, and it disturbs their worship, reliance is not permissible. Abu Turab al-Nakhshabi once observed a Sufi reaching for melon rinds after three days of hunger and advised him, "Sufism is not suitable for you. Stick to the market," emphasizing that true Sufism requires reliance. Reliance on God is valid only for those who can endure hunger for more than three days."

"اللّٰه Almighty said: "Seek help through patience and prayer; indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive" from سُورَة البَقَرَة. These three things are how Sufism is realized. Sufism is a corner of true spiritual conduct, purification, and refinement of the soul, preparing it for its journey to the companionship of the Most High and the company of those it loves."

"This is the reality of the sound heart, which none shall be saved except those who come to اللّٰه with it. This is the true purification of the righteous, the close, and the knowledgeable. Any purification other than this is incomplete. This is the purification of those with firm resolve. Then the شَيْخ explained the cause of opposition and how the servant rejects it."

"Consuming the wealth of rulers and illicit goods are grave sins that undermine justice and piety. If one can imagine a sinful Sufi, one can also imagine a Sufi as an infidel and a scholar as a Jew. Just as a jurist is a specific type of Muslim, a Sufi represents a distinct form of justice, not limited to the minimum required for maintaining justice in their religion."

"are not to be blamed for their travels as long as they do not harm others or deceive people about their condition. The real issue arises when they deceive others and seek charity under the guise of Sufism, consuming from endowments meant for the Sufi path. A true Sufi is a righteous and just person in their religion, possessing additional commendable traits."