Roots of Sufism from Ancient Greece of Hellenic Era to the Qadria’ Silsila in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan with Special Reference to the Impact of Khanqah-I-Sidra Sharif on Socio-Cultural and Literary Spheres of Society: A Critical Appraisal

Abstract

This inclusive research paper aims to provide a brief critical appraisal of the philosophical roots and historical development of Sufism (mysticism) from ancient Greece of Hellenic era to Qadria’ Silsila of Khanqah-i-Sidra Sharif, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Right from the apparent roots of Sufism in the falling ancient Greece of Hellenic era, this research paper aims to ascertain the growth and evolution of Sufism as an alienated thought that has entranced the hearts and minds of innumerable pursuers of eternal peace for centuries. From side to side, numerous historical epochs, stressing upon the influences of key figures, movements, and metaphysical thoughts, this paper also aims to critically assess the progressive voyage of Sufism by throwing light on the multi-layered nature of Sufism and its hard-wearing worth and significance in contemporary Islamic mysticism at the time of politico-social and economic unrest with special reference to Khanqah-e-Sidra Sharif, situating at the district of Dera Ismail Khan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP, hereafter), Pakistan and identify its impacts on socio-cultural and literary spheres of society. The data has been collected through conducting personal in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Materials of the collected data were transcribed as well as authenticated with the secondary sources, published in the relevant books and articles as well as qualitative research method is used to describe, analyze and substantiate the central argument.