sufimates

Sufimates is a term sometimes used to refer to individuals who identify with or are interested in Sufism, the mystical dimension of Islam. It is not a formal religious title or a universally recognized designation within Sufi orders. The term suggests a connection or affinity with Sufi teachings, practices, and philosophies, which often emphasize love, devotion, and the direct experience of the divine.

Sufism itself encompasses a wide range of traditions, schools of thought, and spiritual paths that have developed over centuries. Practitioners, often referred to as Sufis or dervishes, engage in various spiritual disciplines such as meditation, chanting, and remembrance of God (dhikr) to purify the heart and attain spiritual closeness to Allah. Sufimates might be those who study Sufi literature, attend gatherings (majlis) where Sufi poetry and music are shared, or seek guidance from Sufi teachers (shaykhs or murshids).

The use of "sufimate" can be informal, and its meaning can vary depending on the context and the individual using it. It might be employed by those who feel a personal resonance with Sufi ideals, even if they do not belong to a specific Sufi order. It can also be used by outsiders to describe someone perceived to have an interest in Sufism. The term does not imply a level of spiritual attainment, but rather a connection or inclination towards the Sufi path.