Explaining the characteristics of education in Islamic mysticism based onthe anecdotes of mystical texts

The famous elders (Sheikhs) of Islamic mysticism are prominent masters of spiritual journeyand each of them has raised many students and approached to the highest levels ofknowledge. In most mystical texts, there are anecdotes that show mystics knew the spirits oftheir students and nurtured them with great insight. Analysis their education system cananswer two basic questions; First, what are the outstanding features in the educationalmethods of elders of mysticism who have guided tens or even hundreds of eager disciples andseekers in the path of spiritual journey? And second, how the educational characteristics ofthe elders (Sheikhs) of mysticism are reflected in the anecdotes of mystical texts. Theachievements of the research show that the observance of good temper, maintaining thesanctity of the ancient masters and current students, simplicity and humility, acting on hiswords, accepting criticism and most importantly, having effective methods of verbal and nonverbalcommunication; especially the question and answer method has had a great impact onthe education of students in the path of spiritual journey. According to the anecdotes andsayings quoted in mystical texts, there are several ways for question and answer method, andthe mystics used these methods to express mystical teachings.

Keywords:

Islamic mysticism , Mystical texts , Education , Elders (Sheikhs) of mysticism