Understanding Sufism: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At Sufi Soul Garden, we honour the timeless path of the heart — the way of love, sincerity, and remembrance. These answers are offered for seekers who wish to understand the spirit of Sufism in a simple and heartfelt way.
May Allah guide us all on the path of sincerity and love.
What does “Sufi” mean?
The word “Sufi” comes from the Arabic word ṣūf, meaning wool, symbolizing the simple woolen garments worn by early seekers of purity.
More deeply, a Sufi is someone who seeks to purify the heart, live with sincerity, and walk in love and service to Allah.
What is Sufi belief?
Sufis believe in the oneness of Allah, the finality of the prophethood of Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), and the importance of purifying the heart.
The Sufi path emphasizes living with truth (sidq), sincerity (ikhlas), remembrance (dhikr), and love for the Divine. It is a path of seeing Allah’s signs in everything and striving to live as a mirror of Divine mercy.
What is the Sufi movement?
The “Sufi movement” refers to the spread of Sufi teachings across cultures and generations.
It is not a separate religion or sect — it is the heart of Islam, living the inner meanings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah. It is a movement of hearts awakening to the remembrance of their Beloved.
How do Sufis pray?
Sufis perform the five daily prayers (salah) as all Muslims do, following the sacred guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
In addition to formal prayer, Sufis engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah), dua (supplication), and acts of love and service.
Prayer becomes not just an obligation, but a deep yearning to be near to Allah in every moment.
How many Sufi orders are there?
There are many Sufi orders (turuq), each carrying a unique fragrance but rooted in the same origin — the light of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Some well-known orders include the Qadiriyya, Naqshbandiyya, Chishtiyya, and Shadhiliyya.
Each order is a family of the heart, guided by a living connection back to the Prophet and to Allah through chains of mercy and knowledge.
A Word from Our Guide, Sidi Muhammad al-Jamal
In the words of our beloved teacher, Sidi Muhammad al-Jamal (may Allah sanctify his secret), from Music of the Soul:
“The Sufi is the one who sees everything and everyone with the eye of the heart, which sees only Allah.”
This sacred teaching reminds us that the true Sufi path is not found in outer appearances, but in the polishing of the heart until it becomes a mirror reflecting Divine Love.
Inspired by Sidi’s life and guidance, we strive to walk as he taught:
to see nothing in existence except Allah,
to polish the heart through remembrance and sincerity,
and to serve all creation with humility, patience, and gratitude.
At Sufi Soul Garden, every offering, every gathering, and every prayer is made with the intention to live by these sacred teachings.
If you feel called to deepen your journey, we warmly welcome you to explore our offerings or simply sit with these words in reflection.
The door is always open for those seeking the path of love.
