The origins of Tariqas (The Tariqa's cohesional power and the Shaykhhood succession question)

Abstract

The first tarīqas are said to have been founded in the 12th century by several Sufis. However, the individual aspects of tarīqas such as silsilas, schools and Sufi orders have their origins in the pre-tarīqa period, and the substantial contribution of the alleged founders of early tarīqas to their formation is dubious. Therefore, the emergence of tarīqas is to be regarded as a continuation and integration of existing traditions, rather than the invention of a new style of Sufism. Yet another aspect of the emergence of tarīqas is the formation of identity. The tarīqas as well as the concept of tarīqa itself were formed by Sufis who identifi ed themselves as the successors of the alleged founders.