DefinePK

Abstract

Sufism represents a universal spiritual ideology that transcends geographic and cultural boundaries. Just as humanity has never existed without religion, the essence of Sufism—rooted in spirituality and inner transformation—has remained relevant in all eras. Sufism plays a vital role in shaping both the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of human life. In the context of Islam, it is not an external addition but an integral soul of the religion, aiming to connect the human self with divine reality. This study critically analyzes the viewpoints of three prominent orientalists—Reynold Alleyne Nicholson, Martin Lings, and William C. Chittick—who significantly contributed to the study and translation of Islamic Sufi texts. The research presents an individual and comparative examination of their thoughts on the definition and essence of Sufism, its historical origins, philosophical foundations, and socio-religious impact. The findings reveal a nuanced approach by these scholars. While acknowledging the depth and spiritual richness of Islamic Sufism, they also offer critiques rooted in their external academic frameworks. Some interpretations align with Islamic understandings, while others reflect a secular or comparative lens. This article not only explores how Orientalists have perceived and interpreted Islamic Sufism but also sheds light on the broader academic and interfaith dialogue between Western scholarship and Islamic mysticism. Furthermore, the study opens pathways for future research into diverse aspects of Sufism, such as comparative mysticism, interreligious spirituality, and post-orientalist academic responses.