Sufism and the Sunnah
Although there is no evidence that the word “Tasawwuf” (the Arabic word for “Sufism”) was used by the Prophet (peace be upon him), he certainly used the word ‘Ihsan’ or spiritual sincerity. Sufi Shaykhs have said that Sufism itself is nothing
other than this sincerity, or the perfect following of the way of Muhammad,
both inner and outer.
Therefore, Tasawwuf, or Sufism, can in no way be divorced from the teachings
of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Anyone who acts contrary to the
principles of Islam cannot be considered a Sufi, in spite of their claims.
Care must be taken when choosing a guide, for as Hasan al-Basri, a Shaykh of
the the 7th century said, "Association with the wicked produces suspicion
of the good".
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