سیرتِ نبوی ﷺ میں تصوف کے بنیادی عناصر: روحانی تطہیر، زہد و تقویٰ اور تعلق باللہ کا جامع تجزیہ

Fundamental Elements of Sufism in the Prophetic Biography (Sīrah): A Comprehensive Analysis of Spiritual Purification, Asceticism, and Divine Connection

Abstract

The life of the Holy Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ stands as the ultimate model for every aspect of human existence, including not only practical conduct but also inner purification and spiritual development. Sufism, in its true essence, revolves around sincerity, purification of the soul (tazkiyah), detachment from worldly desires, and a deep connection with Allah. These core elements of Sufism are deeply rooted in the Prophetic Sīrah and reflect the spiritual legacy that was later adopted and systematized by the Ṣūfī masters. This research aims to explore the fundamental aspects of Sufism as manifested in the life of the Prophet ﷺ. It examines the presence of spiritual discipline, ascetic lifestyle, divine love, and reliance upon Allah through his sayings (aḥādīth), actions (aʿmāl), and inward states (aḥwāl). The Prophet’s ﷺ detachment from worldly luxuries, his humble lifestyle, his intense devotion in worship, and his exemplary moral conduct such as patience, gratitude, and forgiveness, provide a clear embodiment of Sufi ideals. Moreover, the study delves into classical definitions of Sufism as articulated by prominent scholars like Imām al-Qushayrī and Ibn Khaldūn, contextualizing their views within the Prophetic model. Through this lens, the article highlights how the roots of genuine Islamic mysticism are not innovations but rather direct continuations of the Prophet’s ﷺ own spiritual path. The research concludes that the Prophetic Sīrah is the original source and authentic foundation upon which the edifice of Islamic Sufism is built.