Rituals and Worship In addition to customary Muslim practices,
Sufi practitioners cultivate a rich inner life that analyzes
temporary states of being called "hals" on the path to achieving
more permanent heights of spiritual enlightenments called
stations, or "maqam." Many Sufi lodges developed around the
shrines or tombs dedicated to founders of a particular "tariqa"
or order. These lodges could serve as residences to members of
an order, or as schools or hostels for visitors and travelers.
Rites and Ceremonies "Dhikr," or remembrance of God, is the
central ceremony in Sufi practice and is performed in addition
to regular daily prayers. Comprised of voluntary prayers that
may be performed at any time, and invocations of God, "dhikr's"
meaning and form are derived from an understanding of the Quran.
Worship and Devotion in Daily Life In addition to ceremonial
practices, the daily life of the Sufi is shaped by the paradigm
of worship as a path to God. Each day and each moment is seen as
an opportunity to remem