Sufism

The mystical and esoteric dimension of Islam. The Sufi seeks direct knowledge of God through purification of the heart, remembrance (dhikr), and annihilation of the self in the divine. Major orders include the Naqshbandi, Mevlevi (whirling dervishes), and Chishti.

Arabic ṣūf — "wool," from the woolen robes of early ascetics.

• Mysticism
• Gnosis