Is Sufism Being Used by Autocrats? with Dr. Shadee Elmasry

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Modern day autocrats turn to Sufi movements to justify their tyranny. With an emphasis on the personal and the spiritual, there is a tendency towards political quietism –dismissing the cries of Gaza – condoning normalisation and delegitimising struggles for liberation. Dr Shadee Elmasry, argues that historically, Sufi movements have been at the fore of fighting for justice. Sufism produced illustrious anti-colonialism struggles and courageous warriors.

Dr Shadee Elmasry is the scholar in Residence and Director of Education and Community Affairs at the New Brunswick Islamic Center in New Jersey. He is also the founder and head of Safina Society—an institution dedicated to the cause of traditional Islamic education in the West.


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Disclaimer:
The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised.

Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction
2:11 - What is Sufism?
8:04 - Spirituality
9:49 - Donate to Baitulmaal
10:41 - Monasticism
13:06 - Sufism in shariah
18:25 - Sufism and quietism
22:26 - Authoritarianism and pacification
30:11 - Asceticism and resistance
34:50 - Sufi anti-colonial warriors
44:39 - Spirituality and activism
51:26 - Advice to young Muslims