An Investigation of Two Perspectives of Researchers on the Sufis in the Mongol Era

An Investigation of Two Perspectives of Researchers on the Sufis in the Mongol Era

Sufism, traditionally perceived as an individualistic spiritual path aimed at enhancing the relationship between the believer and the Divine within Islam, has, through its broad organizational structure encompassing various social classes, emerged as a formidable social catalyst and arguably the most influential social force in medieval Iran. 

In the years leading up to and during the initial phases of the Mongol invasion, as well as throughout the period of Mongol governance over the extensive territories of Iran, Sufism attained a preeminent status in Iranian society. Its influence became so pervasive that identifying any societal function without encountering the imprint of Sufism proved to be a challenging endeavor. 

However, when contemporary scholars analyze the social roles of this intellectual and spiritual movement, they tend to adopt one of two largely divergent or possibly contradictory perspectives. Some researchers contend that the Sufis, through their ascetic teachings, encouraged a withdrawal from worldly engagement, thereby inadvertently facilitating the incursions of Genghis Khan's forces. Conversely, a more significant cohort of researchers posits that the organizational framework of the khanqah served as a sanctuary for the afflicted populace during the Mongol era, providing solace under the aegis of Sufi sheikhs and their doctrines. 

Shideh / M. Sadeghani