عصرِ حاضر میں انحطاطِ تصوف کے اسباب اور مولانا عبدالصمد ہالیجویؒ کی تعلیمات کی روشنی میں ان کا فکری و عملی حل

Causes of the Decline of Sufism in the Contemporary Era and Its Intellectual and Practical Solutions in the Light of the Teachings of Maulana Abdul Samad Haleeji

Abstract

This research study examines the causes of the decline of Sufism in the contemporary era and explores its intellectual and practical solutions through the teachings of Maulana Abdul Samad Haleeji (RA). Sufism, which originally represented the spiritual and moral essence of Islam—focusing on self-purification (tazkiyah), ihsan, sincerity, and nearness to Allah—has undergone significant deterioration over time due to various factors. The study identifies key causes of this decline, including ignorance of the true essence of Sufism, the infiltration of non-Islamic customs and innovations (bid'ah), excessive veneration of saints and personalities, the influence of foreign philosophical ideas, and the gradual disconnection from the Qur'an and Sunnah. The research employs an analytical methodology, drawing upon classical Sufi literature and the writings, speeches, and teachings of Maulana Abdul Samad Haleeji (RA), a distinguished scholar and Sufi master of the Qadiriyya order in Sindh, Pakistan. The findings reveal that the primary cause of Sufism's decline is ignorance and the absence of true knowledge of Allah (ma'rifah) and the Prophet ﷺ, which has led to deviations in both belief and practice. Maulana Haleeji's teachings emphasize that authentic Sufism is inseparable from Islamic jurisprudence and the Prophetic tradition, and that its restoration requires a return to Qur'anic teachings, Prophetic guidance, and the example of the righteous predecessors (Salaf). The study concludes that the revival of Sufism depends upon reconnecting with its foundational principles, promoting true knowledge, and following the balanced path of Shariah and Tariqah as exemplified by classical Sufi masters.