What is the ruling on the actions of contemporary Sufis, such as whirling and swaying of the head, and inserting needles or iron wires into their bodies? Is this considered a type of sorcery?

Swaying the head and spinning are innovations (bid'ah). The Companions used to sit with the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, with tranquility and serenity. As for inserting needles and iron wires into the body, this is a form of sorcery practiced by charlatans. Imam Al-Tartushi was asked about the doctrine of the Sufis who gather for remembrance (dhikr (definition)) and dancing until some of them fall into a trance. He replied that the Sufi doctrine is false, ignorant, and misguided, and that Islam is the Book of Allah and the Sunnah (definition) of His Messenger. He added that dancing and states of ecstasy were first introduced by the followers of the Samiri around the calf, and as for beating with a rod, this was first adopted by the heretics (zandaqa). It is not permissible for anyone who believes in Allah and the Last Day to attend their gatherings or assist them in their falsehood. This is the doctrine of the four Imams and others.