A Flexible Framework

By Dr. Jassim Taqui, *Forum for Sufism to be established in Marrakech* - Pakistan Observer - Islamabad, ISB, Pakistan
Friday, July 17, 2009

—An International Forum for Sufism would be established in the historic city of Marrakech. The idea of the Forum was floated by Sidi Shiker World Gatherings of Tassauf Affiliates.

One thousand followers of Sufism from 50 countries travelled to Marrakech to attend the gathering , as part of an event intended to forge links between Sufism in Morocco and its various branches around the world.

The proposed Forum would be independent and would include various schools of thoughts of Islamic mysticism. It would serve as a flexible framework to promote understanding, work, contact, and exchange regarding the activities of Sufis around the world.

The body could begin its work by implementing essential projects such as a comprehensive overhaul of Sufi institutions and the creation of a website to meet their needs.

Morocco offered to host the new institution, as Sufism plays an integral part in its national identity. King Mohammed VI sent a message to the participants, saying that Sufism in Morocco shows a balanced view of Islam, advocating love and fraternity.

“In addition to their ability to identify the roots of the problem and propose solutions,” the king wrote, “the great wisdom of the Sufis has helped them to identify a way forwards whenever the interests of our community have been at stake”.

Morocco has a long history with Sufism. It is both a religious and a political choice at the same time. For centuries, the kings of Morocco have maintained a strong link between the Commander of the Faithful and Sufis in order to preserve the Islamic faith as well as religious doctrine.

It is no accident that international meetings are held in Sidi Chiker, since the site has been a meeting-place for ulemas ever since Islam arrived in Morocco in the seventh century and has been a centre for religious guidance.The theme of Sidi Chiker World Meetings has been seeking to draw inspiration from the spiritual values of Sufism and come up with innovative approaches to educating Muslims about various aspects of their lives, in order to foster their religious and spiritual development.

Participants hailed the Moroccan initiative, which promotes Sufism in what some see as an era of disagreements and misunderstandings.

Many Sufis believe their teachings can provide a remedy for problems currently faced by states, such as terrorism and extremism.

Sufism calls on Muslims to rally together and to steer clear of disputes and conflicts. The Sufis called for projecting the real image of Islam as the religion of tolerance and peace at a time when extremism is on the rise. Thus reviving Sufism can play an important role as an ethical path to personal and collective development within Muslims.