Huston Smith Part 4

Chapter 8- Sufism

Question: What is Sufism and how did it come about?

Main Ideas:

1. Sufis are those within the Islamic Community that came after Muhhamads death.

2. Every message in the Quran is important

3. Sufis wanted to see God directly

4. Sufism is very complicated and only understood and practiced by few

5. In Sufism, symbolism is very important

Thesis Statement: Sufism came to be after the death of Muhammad and is the mystery dimension of Islam.

Summary: Sufism is a small branch of Islam. It is practiced by a few however its beliefs are hardly understood by those out of that denomination. Since Gods image cannot be replicated, symbols are used as centers of worship. This is important because the goal of Sufis is to encounter God directly.

 

Chapter 9- Whither Islam

Question: How has the importance of following Muhammad's teachings changed in Islam?

Main Ideas:

1. Islam has changed overtime in accordance with the world. So Muhammad’s teachings have changed overtime as well.

2. As western culture has continued to grow and become more important, Muslims have wandered from the words of Muhammad

3. Faithful prayer is still very important in Islam

4. God is good

5. Islam is a monotheistic religion. They believe Allah is the only God.

Thesis Statement: Muhammad is still very important in the religion of Islam, but his words have slightly different meaning now and Muslim's interpret them differently because of "mere profession".

 

Summary: As times have changed so have the customs and practices. This process has especially happened due to the growth and impact of western culture. Today, Muhammad’s words are not understood or practiced the way they would have been in the past. However, somethings have remained the same. This being the devotion to pray 5 times a day.