Is it permissible to follow a Sufi order that contains no innovations (bidʻah) or polytheistic practices (shirk)?
There is no objection to being called a Sufi, but those who adopt this name are criticized for the transgressions, innovations (bid'ah), and polytheistic acts (shirk) they commit. That which aligns with the Quran and Sunnah is praiseworthy, and that which contradicts them is blameworthy. Sheikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah stated that Sufism contains both praiseworthy and blameworthy aspects, and that it includes among its adherents Allah's saints and the best of His servants, just as it contains transgressions. However, generally, those who adopt this name in contemporary times often exhibit widespread transgressions, innovations, and polytheistic acts. It is not possible to distinguish between what is correct and what is corrupt except through Islamic knowledge.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/130326