Suhu: Journal of Sufism and Humanities
Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): SUHU: Journal of Sufism and Humanities

Sufism, Orthodoxy, and Spirituality: A Critical Reading of Imam Muhammad Abu Zahrah’s Thought

Muhammad Badrun (Universitas Darussalam Gontor)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Dec 2025

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the theoretical foundations of Sufism through the intellectual framework of Imam Muhammad Abu Zahrah, aiming to uncover his interpretive methodology and his position in reconciling Sufi spirituality with Islamic orthodoxy. Method: Employing a qualitative critical-analytical method based on textual analysis of Abu Zahrah’s writings, classical Sufi literature, and secondary theological studies, supported by historical contextualization, the research situates his thought within the broader development of Islamic mysticism and its key figures. Result: The findings reveal that Abu Zahrah adopts a balanced mediating stance: affirming the ethical and spiritual value of Sufism while critiquing speculative excesses and mystical extremism. He advocates for a purified, ethically grounded Sufism aligned with Qur’anic rationality and Islamic creed, thereby distancing it from esoteric deviations. Conclusion: The study concludes that Abu Zahrah’s approach provides a valuable framework for rethinking the role of Sufism in modern Islamic thought, demonstrating its continued relevance for contemporary spiritual renewal and intellectual reform within the Muslim world.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

suhu

Publisher

Subject

Description

SUHU: Journal of Sufism and Humanities is a high-quality, peer-reviewed research journal published by published by LaKaspia (Aceh Institute for Social and Political Studies). The journal is bilingual, featuring publications in Indonesian and English, and is committed to providing a prestigious ...