Is the statement of some sheikhs that Sufism is forbidden, and that it is not permissible to call anyone “Sayyid” (Master), even the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and to suffice with saying “Messenger of Allah,” correct?
Contemporary Sufism contains many deviations, some of which may reach major shirk (polytheism), and it is far from asceticism and worship. As for using the title "Sayyid" (master/chief), there is no harm in using it for the Prophet, peace be upon him, or for others. This is based on his saying, peace be upon him: "Stand up for your chief," referring to Sa'd ibn Mu'adh, and his saying: "Al-Hasan and Al-Husayn are the chiefs of the youth of Paradise," and his saying about himself: "I am the chief of the children of Adam on the Day of Resurrection." The hadith "Do not call me Sayyid in prayer" has no basis. Ibn al-Qayyim preferred the permissibility of using the word "Sayyid" for others besides Allah.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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