Notes for Wednesday Dec. 4, 2002

Sufism-comes from Arabic word suf that means wool. Ascetic group who wore wool clothing.
-Known as the Fakirs ("poor ones")
-Monastic group-live in a religious community;not many female groups.
-Emphasis on experiencing oneness with God.
-Emphasis on seeing God's face in a religious vision and meditation.
-Emphasis on love and compassion.
-Originally did not follow the "outward" rules and rituals of the Shariah. (didn't follow the five pillars at first)They were persecuted for this and extreme oneness with God teaching.
-This persecution went on until Al-Ghazali came along. He was a medieval suf. reformer who made Sufism respectable and less extreme. He taught both inner and outer obedience.
The Mawaliya (whirling Dervishes)-sect of Sufism. A sufi brother hood. Got name from ritual dancing which involves twirling. Founded by Rumi-a sufi poet.
Actecism-denying bodily wants and needs for spiritual purpose.(Like fasting)