The history of Sufism

Sufism offers a path of spiritual elevation toward love, unity, and humility; an inner journey for anyone seeking to reach the depths of their inner being and discover their true identity. 

The word “Sufism” first appeared in the West in the 19th century. It derives from the Arabic word taṣawwuf, a term used since the 8th century to designate this spiritual teaching of Islam. The etymology of the term is still subject to debate. Some believe it derives from the word ṣūf (“wool” in Arabic) in reference to the modest woven woolen garment worn by the Prophet of Islam and his disciples in the 7th century, a chosen austerity to purify their souls. Others suggest that it is rooted in the Arabic word for limpidity and clarity (safā), or to refer to the Prophet’s followers (ahl as-suffa, “the people of the bench” in Arabic).

While the first Sufi masters can be traced back to the earliest days of Islam, the profound wisdom of Sufism is described by its masters as something that has existed from the very beginning of humanity. 

The museum’s collection has been assembled over the past few decades by the MTO Shahmaghsoudi® school. It offers a perspective on the artistic creations and cultural expressions of Sufism, helping visitors to better understand its teachings, history, and values.