Question:
I see no real difference in Sufi concept to the Shia one vis a vis referring to Ahlul Bayt. I also understand that all Sufi orders go back to Imam Ali (as), a factor in support of his mastership/superiority (after the pure Prophet (saawa))?
I read on your site that if all the Ummah of Prophet were combined, it would account for less than Abu Bakr’s importance. Does this not contradict the fact that you are living and practicing from sources other than team Sahaba (may God be pleased with them), ie from Ali and Ahlul Bayt sources?
Can you please explain accurately Sufi belief in relation to this ie. where Ahlul bayt lies in their belief amongst others, eg Sahaaba (ra), considering Imam Ali special status & knowledge and other Ahlul Bayt which Sufi rely on vs general Sunni beliefs who believe in other than this?
Answer:
With the exception of the Naqshbandiyya order, all the other Sufi orders descends from the Prophet (S) through ‘Ali b. Abi Talib. Naqshbandiyya order originates through Abu Bakr (RA). He and the other Sahaba used to love and respect Ahlul-Bayt, family of the Prophet (S).
Imam ‘Ali loved and respected Abu Bakr (RA), following the way of the Prophet (S). He had three children with the names of: Abu Bakr, Omar, and Othman.
Imam Senad Agic
Head Imam (IABNA)
The Islamic Association of Bosniaks in North America
American Islamic Center – Chicago
