The science of Sufism is a profound and deep discipline in the Islamic tradition that systematizes the purification of the self, the cleansing of the heart, and the path to drawing closer to Allah. Although often associated solely with individual spirituality, Sufism is an integral part of the scholarly tradition. In DİDAR Academy's curriculum, Sufism is one of the fundamental areas taught in parallel with Tafsir, Hadith, Fiqh, and Kalam. Especially in the fourth year, Al-Qushayri's Latā'if al-Ishārāt, one of the most important works in the Sufi Tafsir tradition, provides students with the scholarly foundations of self-discipline.
In the science of Sufism, 'tarbiyah' (discipline) refers to the refinement of the self's character and behavior in light of the Qur'an and Sunnah. The self is the most challenging field of human training because it is easier to identify external enemies than to manage the whims of one's own self. Classical Sufi texts address the levels of the self, the ailments of the heart, and their methods of treatment within a scholarly framework. At DİDAR, these texts are read in Arabic, aiming to develop both the student's linguistic and spiritual knowledge simultaneously.
Al-Qushayri's Latā'if al-Ishārāt is the primary Sufi Tafsir source studied during DİDAR's specialization period. This work presents Sufi interpretations of Qur'anic verses, matters of the heart, and teachings on self-discipline. After a student learns the literal meaning of a verse and its narrative Tafsir, they explore Al-Qushayri's dimensions of allusions and subtleties. This gradual progression not only introduces different schools of Tafsir but also cultivates spiritual depth.
In Sufi education, the concepts of 'riyāḍāt' (spiritual exercises) and 'mujāhadah' (struggle) hold significant importance. Riyāḍāt refers to the effort made to discipline the self, while mujāhadah signifies the struggle against the self's negative inclinations. At DİDAR, these concepts are not only explained theoretically but are also supported by the discipline of 'muṭāla’ah' (intensive study), regular recitation, fasting, and extracurricular spiritual activities. Students learn the practical steps of disciplining their self in daily life through experience.
The relationship of Sufism with other disciplines is also considered in the DİDAR curriculum. In Hadith lessons, the spiritual life and depth of worship of the Prophet Muhammad; in Kalam lessons, matters of the heart and the self; and in Fiqh lessons, topics of sincerity and intention establish natural connections with Sufism. This holistic approach enables the student to view Islamic sciences not as disconnected branches but as different limbs of a single tree.
'Adab' (etiquette) and 'khushuʿ' (humility/devotion) are central concepts in self-discipline. In the pursuit of knowledge, adab encompasses respect for the instructor, reverence for the text, and civility in scholarly debate. Khushuʿ, on the other hand, is the consciousness that the heart is in the presence of Allah during worship and in an academic setting. DİDAR's educational ethos provides a foundation for these values to be lived out at an institutional level. Students attend classes with khushuʿ, conduct their studies with adab, and use respectful language in discussions.
A pertinent caveat concerning Sufism (Tasawwuf): the disciplining of the self (nafs) should not devolve into a pursuit of individual caprice and pleasure. Classical Sufism operates within the framework of Sharia and on the foundation of knowledge (ilm). DİDAR Academy’s educational model upholds this principle; Sufism courses are taught on a solid academic ground after Arabic preparation and fundamental Islamic studies (ulum) are completed. Emphasis is placed on discipline rooted in classical texts, rather than on seeking spirituality without proper methodology or sources. Processes of study (mutalaa) and discussion (muzakara) also serve as practical arenas for self-discipline; the student engages with the text directly, thereby educating both heart and mind.
The text Riyad al-Salihin is also one of the significant resources for Sufi discipline during the Arabic preparatory period. This text provides the student with both language skills and Hadith teachings pertaining to the disciplining of the self.
In conclusion, discipline and self-training in Sufism represent the spiritual dimension of DİDAR Academy’s holistic educational approach. When al-Qushayri’s Lata'if al-Isharat, study discipline, and educational etiquette converge, the student transforms not merely into a possessor of knowledge, but into a scholar (ilm erbabı) who disciplines their self and purifies their heart. The ultimate goal of the journey of knowledge is to draw closer to the contentment of Allah; Sufism offers the scholarly map for this path. This map must be read based on classical sources, within the framework of Sharia and Sunnah.