JOUSIP
Vol 5 No 2 (2025): JOUSIP: Journal of Sufism and Psychotherapy, Vol. 5 No. 2, Nov 2025

The Sufi Thought of Sheikh Abdur Rauf as-Singkili: Reconciling Sharia and Spirituality in Responding to Modern Challenges

El-Karimah, Mia Fitriah (Unknown)
Mubarak, Husni (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Nov 2025

Abstract

Sheikh Abdur Rauf as-Singkili (1615-1693) stands as a pivotal figure in the intellectual history of Islam in the Nusantara, particularly for his masterful synthesis of sharia and Sufism during the theological crises of 17th-century Aceh. This study examines the foundational pillars of as-Singkili's Sufi thought and their enduring relevance for contemporary challenges. Employing a qualitative method with an exploratory-phenomenological approach through library research, this study analyzes primary sources including Tarjuman al-Mustafid and 'Umdat al-Muhtajin, alongside secondary literature on his biography and teachings. The findings reveal that as-Singkili's Sufi framework is anchored in six key pillars: reinterpretation of wujudiyyah affirming God's transcendence; inseparability of sharia and tasawuf as complementary dimensions; the concept of Nur Muhammad as cosmic center; the Seven Ranks systematizing God-creation relationships; dhikr as primary practice of divine awareness; and ethics as manifestation of tawhid in behavior. His integrative model—Sharia → Tariqa → Haqiqa → Ma'rifa—established a middle path (wasatiyyah) that prevented both antinomian mysticism and rigid formalism, shaping the distinctive moderate character of Nusantara Islam. The study demonstrates that as-Singkili's teachings remain urgently relevant for addressing modern challenges including materialism and consumerism, digital-age individualism and cyberbullying, and the need for holistic character education. His emphasis on spiritual balance (zuhud), self-control (mujahadah), divine consciousness (muraqabah), and ethics rooted in tawhid offers practical frameworks for navigating contemporary complexities while maintaining spiritual integrity. As-Singkili thus represents a timeless model of Islamic moderation whose intellectual legacy continues to provide foundations for building a tolerant, spiritually grounded, and ethically engaged Muslim society

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jousip

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Health Professions Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Sufism and Psychotherapy aims to provide a forum for consideration of issues and for the exchange of information and ideas on research and practice in the study of sufism and Islamic psychotherapy. Taking an expansive view of the subject, the journal brings together all disciplinary ...