SUFI SHAYKH AS PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Abstract

Discusses the psychotherapeutic role of the "shaykh," or spiritual guide, in leading the aspiring Sufi to union with Allah. While the objective of the Sufi path is primarily mystical, the process is also therapeutic in that the shaykh is an integrated person characterized by an inner equilibrium, a high degree of detachment, and a radical acceptance of prevailing conditions, who leads the disciple toward personal integration and mystic union. The shaykh uses any or all elements of the disciple's life and character to achieve these goals, including the disciple's "undesirable" emotions. The disciple is expected to obey the shaykh completely and emulate his qualities. As in psychotherapy, the shaykh thus serves as a catalyst, enabling the disciple to discover and develop the wholeness and harmony that are innate in his personality. (28 ref) (PsycLIT Database Copyright 1981 American Psychological Assn, all rights reserved)