Labib Mahfuj Chisty
Sufism is not just spirituality; it is a silent revolution of the soul, a long path of surrender to the love of Allah. Many tariqas (orders/paths) have developed on this path over the ages. Among them, Chishtia, Qadriya and Naqshbandi tariqas are the most well-known and influential. In this article, we will discuss the history, fundamental differences, spiritual outlook of these three Sufi orders and how they ultimately reach a common truth of love.
- What is a Sufi order?
Tariqa (طریقة) is an Arabic word, which means path or way. A tariqa is the specific spiritual method that a Sufi master prescribes for the spiritual development of his disciples. The orders are mainly based on meditation and remembrance, self-purification, complete surrender to the Shaykh, and the harmony of Sharia and the order. - Chishtia Order: Love and Service
Origin: Hazrat Abu Ishaq Shami (RA) founded Chisht (present-day Afghanistan) in the 9th century. This order spread to India through Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA).
Basic principles: Humanity and love, selfless service, awakening of the soul through music (sama) and Qawwali.
Special features: Accepting Qawwali as spiritual remembrance, building human relations regardless of Hindu-Muslim, Love for all, hate for none.
Quote: “Open the door of the heart, there is Allah.” — Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA) - Qadriya Tariqa: Uninterrupted worship and love of Allah
Origin: Founded in Baghdad in the 11th century by Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA).
Principles: Strict self-control according to the Quran and Hadith, deep remembrance and remembrance of Allah, active participation in the welfare of society.
Special features: Direct and deep remembrance, belief in miracles or miracles, practice of asceticism and self-sacrifice.
Quote: “I am the friend of the one whom Allah loves.” — Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA). - Naqshbandi Tariqa: Silent meditation and introspective practice
Origin: Hazrat Bahauddin Naqshband (RA) spread this Tariqa in Bukhara in the 14th century.
Principles: Khalwa fi Jamwa (silent meditation in public), purification of the heart by suppressing the nafs or soul, silent dhikr or nafi-isbat.
Special features: wordless meditation (silent dhikr), introspective self-inquiry, thinking and self-analytical practice.
Quote: “Go deep into the mind, Allah waits there.” — Bahauddin Naqshband (may Allah have mercy on him) - Unity, not separation, is the main philosophy
Although there are differences in the practices of the orders, their goal is the same—to dissolve the soul in the love of Allah. The three orders draw the soul towards Allah in three different waves. Some with words, some in silence, some in love, some in fear and devotion. But the final destination is one—union with Allah. - Importance of Tariqa in the Modern Era
Today’s young society is tired of busyness and confusion, losing spiritual connection in search of peace in a meaningless life. In this situation, Chishtia Tariqa teaches humanity and love. Qadriya Tariqa gives moral firmness. Naqshbandi Tariqa opens the door to self-enquiry. - Conclusion: Journey on the path of the heart
The essence of Sufi Tariqa is to love the same Allah in different ways. Chishtia through love, Qadriya through obedience, Naqshbandi through inner meditation. Today’s spiritual religion teaches us these three paths in the world – you can take any path, the condition is one – open your mind, give up pride, immerse yourself in love. All paths lead to Allah, if the heart is on the true path.