Julian Johansen
- Published in print:
- 1996
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780198267577
- eISBN:
- 9780191683305
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198267577.003.0011
- Subject:
- Religion, Islam
This chapter is devoted to an examination of two instances in which the tension between the Sufis and their hostile critics has been overcome, and individuals once critical of a particular Sheikh, or ...
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This chapter is devoted to an examination of two instances in which the tension between the Sufis and their hostile critics has been overcome, and individuals once critical of a particular Sheikh, or of Sufism in general, realize and acknowledge a radical change in their views. This phenomenon is called ‘conversion’. The practical aspects of the initiation of blessing are explained. A discussion on succession is then provided. One single reference to the question of succession by Sheikh Muṭammad is addressed. In attempting to draw any conclusions about individual and institutionalized taṣwwuf, one encounters the problem of speaking meaningfully about that which ‘by definition’ defies description. This study has gone some way to describing the language and content of the Islamic religious discourse, as well as pointing out the dangers of relying on narrowly defined conceptions of ideas, individuals and groups. It has also offered an impression of recent change in the parameters of controversy.Less
This chapter is devoted to an examination of two instances in which the tension between the Sufis and their hostile critics has been overcome, and individuals once critical of a particular Sheikh, or of Sufism in general, realize and acknowledge a radical change in their views. This phenomenon is called ‘conversion’. The practical aspects of the initiation of blessing are explained. A discussion on succession is then provided. One single reference to the question of succession by Sheikh Muṭammad is addressed. In attempting to draw any conclusions about individual and institutionalized taṣwwuf, one encounters the problem of speaking meaningfully about that which ‘by definition’ defies description. This study has gone some way to describing the language and content of the Islamic religious discourse, as well as pointing out the dangers of relying on narrowly defined conceptions of ideas, individuals and groups. It has also offered an impression of recent change in the parameters of controversy.
Elisha Russ-Fishbane
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- August 2015
- ISBN:
- 9780198728764
- eISBN:
- 9780191795497
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198728764.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Judaism, Islam
Chapter 2 discusses in detail the major rites and rituals at the heart of Egyptian Jewish pietism. It demonstrates that the movement was distinguished less by its mystical doctrine than by its ...
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Chapter 2 discusses in detail the major rites and rituals at the heart of Egyptian Jewish pietism. It demonstrates that the movement was distinguished less by its mystical doctrine than by its regimen of ascetic praxis. This chapter illustrates the intricate institutional life of the movement, from the ethics of discipleship and fellowship to its distinctive spiritual discipline of fasting and meditation. It highlights the culture of music and chant in pietist praxis, from the quotidian to the contemplative. It likewise examines the symbolism and solemnity of pietist attire. These include distinctive undergarments to be worn by the adept and clothing reserved for special occasions, such as initiation cloaks to mark entry into the fraternity and special garments designated for prayer.Less
Chapter 2 discusses in detail the major rites and rituals at the heart of Egyptian Jewish pietism. It demonstrates that the movement was distinguished less by its mystical doctrine than by its regimen of ascetic praxis. This chapter illustrates the intricate institutional life of the movement, from the ethics of discipleship and fellowship to its distinctive spiritual discipline of fasting and meditation. It highlights the culture of music and chant in pietist praxis, from the quotidian to the contemplative. It likewise examines the symbolism and solemnity of pietist attire. These include distinctive undergarments to be worn by the adept and clothing reserved for special occasions, such as initiation cloaks to mark entry into the fraternity and special garments designated for prayer.
