THE PLACE OF IMAM RABBANI’S “MAKTUBAT” IN THE HISTORY OF SUFI

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of Maktubot, written by Imam Rabbani Ahmad Sirhindi (1564–1624), a prominent representative of the Naqshbandi-Mujaddidiya order, in the history of Sufism, reform ideas, and the development of Islamic-spiritual thought. Within the framework of the research, the content layers of Maktubot, in particular, the concept of mujaddidiya, the harmony of Sharia and tariqa, the doctrine of “wahdati shuhud” and the theoretical innovations introduced into Sufi practice, were studied based on scientific sources. The impact of the work on the socio-religious environment, the theoretical and spiritual influence it had on the Mujaddidiya direction formed in the next generations of the Naqshbandi order, as well as its role in the moral and spiritual revival of Muslim society are highlighted. The article is edited by Annemarie Schimmel, J.G.J. ter Haar, Yohanan Friedmann, and based on the research of prominent orientalists and mystics, as well as the published main texts of Maktubot. The results show that Maktubot has a special historical significance in the history of Sufism not only as a school of spiritual purification, but also as a socio-spiritual reform movement.