(The Qushayriyyan Epistle on the Science of Sufism) is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential manuals of Islamic mysticism ever written. Authored by the Persian Shafi'i-Ash'ari scholar Abu al-Qasim al-Qushayri (d. 1074 CE) in 1045 CE, this work served as a bridge between the spiritual depths of Sufism and the rigorous standards of orthodox Sunni theology.
The author defines and explains complex mystical terms that often confused outsiders. Key concepts include: alrisala alqushayriyya pdf arabic top
The Risala is meticulously organized into sections that guide a seeker from the foundational beliefs of the community to the highest mystical states. 1. Biographies of the Masters (The Qushayriyyan Epistle on the Science of Sufism)
Imam al-Qushayri wrote the Risala during a period when Sufism faced criticism from literalist scholars and was sometimes misrepresented by deviant practitioners. His primary goals were: The author defines and explains complex mystical terms
For centuries, it has been the primary textbook for Sufi novices ( muridin ) and a standard reference for scholars seeking to understand the compatibility of the inner spiritual path with the outer Divine Law ( Shari'a ). Core Objectives and Historical Context
: To demonstrate that the beliefs and practices of the great Sufi masters were strictly aligned with the Quran, the Sunnah, and the creed of the Ahl al-Sunna .