Islam and Sufism are often perceived as the same religion by non-Muslims, but there are subtle differences between them. Religion is seen as a fundamental aspect of life, promoting goodwill and unity. The belief in a supreme being has been a longstanding concept, and Islam and its mystical side, Sufism, are no exception.
Sufism
Sufism is a mystical aspect of Islam that is not well understood by many. It is not considered an ethnic or religious group, but rather a mystical branch within Islam. Its growth is largely attributed to the rigid legalism of the orthodox leadership and as an alternative to the increasing materialism among the Muslim population. The primary belief in Sufism is pure love for God without any hope for redemption or reward.
Islam
Islam is the second largest religion in the world, with over a billion followers worldwide. It teaches that Allah is the only God, and its doctrines are based on the Qur’an, the sacred scripture. Islam began when the Angel Jibril gave Prophet Muhammad the book of Revelation. Its main teachings include the belief in worshiping only Allah, observance of Salah (ritual prayer), fasting, and abstaining from certain foods.
Difference between Islam and Sufism
Sufism is a part of Islam that focuses on the mystical aspects of the religion, seeking ways to express direct love to God and possessing a mystical knowledge of this act. It plays an important role in spreading Islam to new regions, as many Sufis are dedicated missionaries who preach their beliefs and educate the masses about the spiritual meaning of their lives. The primary teaching of Sufism revolves around unconditional love for God, while Islam encompasses a set of teachings that represent all aspects of a person’s life. Islam is more focused on the wholeness of the individual and how they can attain peace of mind in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways
- Sufism is a mystical part of Islam that emphasizes direct love for God and possesses a mystical knowledge of this act.
- Islam is the second largest religion in the world and focuses on the wholeness of the individual and how they can attain peace of mind amidst adversities.
- While both Islam and Sufism aim to create a better spiritual life for their followers, their main teachings and focuses differ, with Sufism centering around unconditional love for God and Islam encompassing a broader set of teachings for all aspects of life.
