Contemplative Sufism (Dhikr, Tariqas, Wajd)

A path of spiritual realization (tariqa) aiming at the integral transformation of the being through the remembrance of God and the awakening of the heart (Qalb), transmitted from master (Murshid) to disciple (Murid) within the brotherhoods. Its cardinal principles are dhikr (remembrance), fana (extinction of the egotic self) and baqa (subsistence in God), wajd (ecstasy), mahabba (divine love) and the gradual transformation of the nafs. Its techniques include vocal or silent dhikr, sama (spiritual listening), the Mevlevi whirling dance, khalwa (retreat) and collective hadrah. On the therapeutic plane it intersects with stress management, anxiety, mild depression, bereavement and identity quests, particularly for patients of Muslim culture, with a contraindication of ecstatic practices in cases of psychiatric decompensation.

This therapy is covered in detail (principles, indications, protocol, level of evidence) in Volume 8 of the Mémento des Psychothérapies. See the volume.