Sufism: Its Figures and History

Author: Various Authors

There are many theories regarding the origin of the term "Sufism." Sufi authors often attribute the etymology of this word to the root of purity and cleanliness. Western European scholars, until the beginning of the 20th century, tended to believe that the well-known word "Sufism" had a Greek origin meaning "wisdom." The prevailing view in this context is that expressed by medieval Muslim authors, which states that the word is derived from "wool" (ṣūf), because a thick woolen garment has long been considered a characteristic attribute of the ascetic-mystic. It is probable that the term "Sufi" was used long ago to refer to the wandering Christian monks, hermits, and ascetics in Syria and northern Arabia who belonged to various denominations. This book provides a concise encyclopedia on the history of Sufism, its formation, currents, schools, ideas, and prominent figures.