Research Article | Open Access
Representations of the Other in the Sufism of the Islamic West
Dr. Asmahane Bouaicha
Pages: 970-988
Abstract
Islam is characterized by its humanistic dimension and its ability to embrace different religions, based on the unity of humanity and religions in general. This peaceful thought is embodied in the principles of Sufism, where its adherents have long advocated for human unity and the unity of the divine despite religious diversity. This topic holds great significance as it reflects the spiritual dimension of Islam, which has often been overshadowed and overlooked due to certain extremist tendencies. This study aims to highlight several objectives, including the tolerance demonstrated by Sufis of the Islamic West in their interactions with the Other. Among the key findings of this research is that Sufism has championed the call for tolerance towards all religions since its early beginnings. However, its profound theories on this matter were shaped by philosophical Sufism, particularly through the doctrines of the unity of being, the unity of religions and humanity, and the religion of love, which encompasses all beliefs and faiths.
Keywords
The Other, Sufism, Unity of Being, Ibn Arabi, Emir Abdelkader.