HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT AND SCIENTIFIC AND THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE DOCTRINE OF SUFISM

Abstract

 This article examines the historical development and scientific-theoretical foundations of Sufism as an integral dimension of Islamic thought. It explores the emergence of Sufism from early ascetic practices (zuhd) and its gradual evolution into an organized spiritual discipline through the formation of Sufi orders (turuq). The study analyzes the core doctrinal principles of Sufism, including tawḥīd, ihsān, and the purification of the soul, highlighting their epistemological and metaphysical significance. Furthermore, the article discusses the interaction between Sufism and other Islamic sciences such as theology, jurisprudence, and philosophy, emphasizing its interdisciplinary nature. Drawing on recent scholarly literature, the study demonstrates that Sufism remains a dynamic and adaptive tradition that continues to influence spiritual, intellectual, and social life in contemporary contexts. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of Sufism as both a historical phenomenon and a living intellectual tradition.