Sufi Definition
The word sufi comes from the Arabic word for purity, ṣafā. It is often used to describe a person who follows the Islamic faith. Sufism is often seen as a mystical or spiritual branch of Islam.
There is no one definition of sufi that fits all. For some, it may be seen as a spiritual path or way of life. For others, it may be seen as a way of being in the world. For still others, it may be seen as a means of understanding and experiencing the divine.
What is clear, however, is that sufi practices and teachings offer a deepened connection to one's own innermost being and to the eternal mystery of life. They offer a way of living in the present moment and of being at one with the Divine.
Sufism is an ancient path with a rich and unique history. The sūfīs emerged in Central Asia in the 10th century and spread rapidly across the Muslim world and through India. Their teachings were revered as some of the most refined and beautiful to be found anywhere on the globe. They promoted a path of love in which service to humanity is of utmost priority, thus embodying Islamic ideals of social justice and compassion. They were convinced that love is the main path to salvation.
Today, sufi practices and teachings are being revived in many parts of the world. There are many popular books which teach about sufism. There are also many sufi centers and retreats which offer a variety of programs. However, it is important to remember that sufi practices do not come with a guarantee for happiness or inner peace. It is similar to learning a new skill such as singing, painting, or karate-do — one must practice diligently to acquire the skills and then find joy in practicing them.
This is how our gratitude candles came to be. To develop a routine, we light the candles at the proper salat time each day, and do our gratitude practice. A gratitude practice can be anything from your 5 minute journal, to dancing, to skincare routine, and of course salah/namaz.