Fatwa #747414 December 2002South Africa
How does one become a Sufi?? Is it necessary to have a Sheikh as a Ustaad or can one follow the path of Tasawwuf themselves??
Answer
The purpose of Tasawwuf is to reform oneself to the extent of being compliant to Shari?ah in every aspect of life and gaining closeness to Allah. This injunction is replete in the Qur?aan and Ahaadith.
If one is able to reform him/herself, then the purpose is achieved. If one is not able to reform him/herself, then it is advisable to seek the assistance from a pious and upright person. It is preferable that such a person be an Aalim as well as it is possible that a non-Aalim may offer advices not consistent with the Shari?ah.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
If one is able to reform him/herself, then the purpose is achieved. If one is not able to reform him/herself, then it is advisable to seek the assistance from a pious and upright person. It is preferable that such a person be an Aalim as well as it is possible that a non-Aalim may offer advices not consistent with the Shari?ah.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai