SUFISM

At the heart of Islam, Sufism is a school of wisdom and spiritual humanism rooted in the teachings and spiritual legacy of the Prophet Muhammad, who described a Muslim as “one from whose actions and words others are safe.”

Drawing on a fourteen-century-old heritage, continually revitalised by each generation, the Sufi tradition calls us to ihsân (excellence in doing good), respect for life, and universal mercy (rahma). It teaches individual responsibility, solidarity among human beings, and respect for all realms of creation.

As a path of awakening, Sufism seeks to nurture and educate human consciousness. “Love for others what you love for yourself”: this teaching of the Prophet reflects a universal wisdom that has been present since the dawn of humanity.

“Sufism is not an ideology, nor is it knowledge in itself. It is like a fragrance.” — Sheikh Bentounes

“Sufism is spiritual nourishment intended to awaken human consciousness. It is founded on humanistic and universal values such as brotherhood, altruism, and generosity. It reminds us that the purpose of religious practice is, first and foremost, to heal the ailing human being. To pray, meditate, and sing is to offer therapy to the soul.
In Sufism, there is no legalism, dogmatism, or literalism. Sufism recognises that no one has a monopoly on truth. There are as many paths as there are human beings on Earth. Religious diversity is a source of richness. The other is my mirror; I need them.”

Sheikh Bentounes, interview in Le Temps, 7 October 2010.