Sufism is the broad term given to several related mystical schools, or movements within Islam. Although elements of mysticism have always been present in Islam to some degree or another Sufism became extremely prominent and well ordered starting in the 11th century. It is around this time that the formalized Sufi orders started to appear in something approaching the forms we see them in today.
Sufis engage in a series of ritual practices including the veneration of saints, Dhikr the remembrance and repetition of the the names of God, Muraqaba a meditation like practice, ritualized movements like whirling and dancing, and more. A colorful dancer is pictured above.
Sufism is sometimes incorrectly thought to be a denomination like Sunnism, Shiism, or Ibadism, but this is not the case. It exists comfortably within both Sunni and Shi'a Islam where it acts as a set of additional practices followers can take part in. Interestingly Sufism is entirely absent in Ibadism. In many parts of the world -- such as West Africa -- most Muslims are members of Sufi orders while in others, Sufis only make up a small portion of the community.
To learn more about both Sufism and religious mysticism before our visit check out this excellent YouTube channel run by a religious studies Ph.D. candidate who specializes in Sufism.
