... is the true Islam. Other Muslims (Sunnis and Shi'i) have adapted Islam in their own way but Sufis maintain that Sufism is the true religion. They believe that many of the Qur'anic verses are in favour of their mystical practises. For example "mention God often" relates to the practise where Sufis repeat the name of God and enter trances. Sufis prepare for death, in their forms of worship. They use "obliteration of the self" to enter the mind of God. The path that they follow consists of four states. Zuhd- detachment from worldly affairs. Sabr - patience. Shukr - gratitude to Allah. Hubb- Love of Allah. To achieve these stages they have prolonged periods of fasting, and self inflicted pain and wearing of uncomfortable clothes. The Shaykh guides this path. The path includes repentance, ridding themselves of earthly belongings and meditation. The Shaykh guides the Sufis, as it is difficult to do. Sufis ...

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