Sufism & Waqf

Sufism, rooted in the idea of love and service, has shaped India’s spiritual and social make-up, with waqf endowments sustaining dargahs, education, and welfare; though mismanagement now threatens their legacy

- SYED NASERUDDIN CHISHTY

Sufism, the spiritual dimension of Islam, is a path that emphasizes love, compassion, service to humanity, and inner purification. The great Sufi saints of India such as Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (Rz), Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya (R.A.) and many others dedicated their lives to spreading the universal message of peace (Aman), tolerance, and unity among all communities. Their teachings transcended caste, creed, and religion, fostering a culture of insaniyat (humanity) and spiritual enlightenment.

The Khanqahs and Dargahs established by these Awliya-e-Kiram became centers of spiritual guidance, charity, education, and social welfare—places where the hungry were fed, the sick were healed, and the hearts of seekers were illuminated.

Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, has played a crucial role in shaping India's religious, social, and cultural landscape. Over centuries, Sufi saints and their spiritual teachings have attracted large followings, transcending religious and caste boundaries. Alongside their spiritual influence, Sufis also contributed to the development of institutions like waqf, a form of charitable endowment under Islamic law. Waqf has been instrumental in sustaining the infrastructure of Sufi shrines, known as dargahs, which serve as significant centers of spirituality, social welfare, and cultural heritage.

Sufism and waqf are two sides of a coin. On the one side, Sufis dedicate themselves to the service of Allah and on the other side they dedicate their entire possessions including their properties in the interest and social well-being of people irrespective of religion, caste, and creed.