Tasawuf and Pashtun Society

Abstract

Human life comprises of the material and spiritual sides, which are both separate as well as connected to each other. The evolutionary history of human life proves that spiritual vigor is necessary for leading a good practical life. Every religion has a strategy for the spiritual training and education of its followers. Tasawuf (or sufisim) is a system for increasing spiritual training and increase its strength in Islam. It has been defined in different contexts, however, according to Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajweri “it is such a narrative and interpretation of Safa where there is no doubt or complaint. The apparent meaning of Safa is light, and Sufism is the interpretation of this meaning”. This article discusses the concept of tasawuf in the pashtun society. Briefly, it describe that the literary work on tasawuf in the Islamic world reached zenith in the 3rd to 7th century, however, its intensity declined later. In India, Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh name is worth noticing and his book “Kashf al-Mahjub” is a beacon for the followers of tasawuf. Many other notable personalities following this path flourished in the Delhi Sultanate. Pir Rokhan is the pioneer who started preaching tasawuf in the pashtun society. Pir Baba and Akhund Derweza, though opponents of Pir Rokhan, are other notable names in the preaching of tasawuf in Pashtun society. The preachers of tasawuf are respected in the pashtun society because these people possessed good manners and high morals, teaching the same to the people as well.