Fundamental Principles of Tasawwuf

Fundamental Principles of Tasawwuf (Mukhtasar Qawāʿid al-Taṣawwuf) is a timeless work by the esteemed Moroccan scholar and Sufi master, Shaykh Aḥmad Zarrūq (d. 899 AH / 1493 CE). Renowned as “Muṣliḥ al-Ṣūfiyyah” (The Reformer of the Sufis), Shaykh Zarrūq masterfully integrates Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), theology (ʿaqīdah), and spirituality (taṣawwuf), emphasizing the harmony between outward practice and inward sincerity.

In this abridged version, Shaykh Zarrūq presents forty foundational principles that serve as a roadmap for spiritual development, guiding readers through the intricate interplay of faith (īmān), practice (ʿamal), and self-awareness. These principles address key themes such as the balance between worship and daily life, the importance of sincere remembrance (dhikr), the necessity of a spiritual guide, and adherence to prophetic ethics.

Key Features:

• Authoritative Scholarship: Authored by Shaykh Aḥmad Zarrūq, a pivotal figure in Islamic spirituality.

• Authentic Islamic Knowledge: Grounded in the Qur’an and Sunnah, reflecting the teachings of the early Islamic tradition.

• Bilingual Edition: Presented in both Arabic and English, facilitating deeper understanding and study.

• Accessible Format: Abridged and translated by Abd al-Rahman Sha’ar, making complex concepts approachable for contemporary readers.

Benefits for the Reader:

• Deepens understanding of Tasawwuf and its role in Islamic practice.

• Provides practical guidance for spiritual growth and self-purification.

• Enhances connection with Allah through sincere worship and ethical conduct.