The Contribution of Sufi Tradition to Multicultural Living

Abstract

Sufism, as a discipline investigating the spiritual dimension of Islamic belief, focuses on the attitudes and behaviors which are necessary for the spiritual development of the individual. Because the individual possesses the spiritual character, sufi individual ensures the development of spiritual dimension of the religion, which contributes to a deep understanding of human dimensions. When considered from this point of view, Sufi life contributes to multiculturalism with respect to coexistence of with varied cultures which is emphasized today. Since the obligation of people has in different beliefs and cultures to live together, it is a necessity to determine the basic principles of co-existence culture. Mutual respect, understanding and especially understanding the thoughts of individuals who are different from our own beliefs and culture, and sensation of their shared perception with us is an essential condition for living together. From this perspective, it is possible to say that the Sufi way of life, developing notion by centering on the human and its tendencies, contributes to the multicultural life.