The Ilahi Mursyid and Spiritual Guidance in Ilahi Sufism: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

This study aims to examine in depth the role of the Ilahi Mursyid in guiding individuals through spiritual experiences within the framework of Ilahi Sufism, particularly in fostering awareness of the presence of God in everyday life. The study employs a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach to understand the meaning of spiritual experiences as lived and interpreted by practitioners of Sufism. Data were collected through a literature review of various digital sources, including scholarly journals, classical and contemporary Sufi texts, and relevant religious documents. The data were analyzed thematically to identify patterns related to the roles, qualifications, and contributions of the Ilahi Mursyid in the process of spiritual formation. The findings reveal that the Ilahi Mursyid plays a central role as a spiritual guide, moral exemplar, and mediator in cultivating an inner relationship between the disciple and God. The essential qualifications of an Ilahi Mursyid include piety and personal righteousness, profound knowledge of Islamic teachings, mature spiritual experience, and high ethical integrity. This study affirms that the presence of an Ilahi Mursyid constitutes an essential element of Ilahi Sufism, as it enables the authentic and sustainable guidance of spiritual practice. These findings are expected to contribute to the enrichment of Sufi studies and to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of spiritual guidance within the Islamic tradition