The Age of Bliss
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Period; 571-632
The Age of Bliss
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Period; 571-632
The term “Asr-ı Saâdat,” used to refer to the period (571-632) during which the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) lived, is considered the beginning of the Sufi way of life, although it is not explicitly named as such. Indeed, it is known that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) withdrew to the Cave of Hira (for retreat and contemplation) a few years before the revelation and engaged in worship and meditation, and after the revelation, he performed numerous daily prayers, worship acts, and dhikr. On the other hand, zuhd — meaning renunciation of worldly desires in order to focus on the Hereafter — was a lifestyle adopted by the Prophet throughout his life. The prayers, dhikr, and tasbih recited by him and his companions were later compiled by Sufis and recited for centuries as daily devotions (awrād), prayers, and dhikr.
HALVET / CONTEMPLATION
Before the revelation, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) began to withdraw from the corrupt society to a quiet place, at times retreating into the Cave of Hira for contemplation of Allah. In Islamic history, some ascetics and Sufis, following the example of the Messenger of Allah, and facing the spread of immoral behavior, increasing oppression, and injustice, concluded that their struggle would not succeed. Thus, at least to save themselves and avoid further sin, they preferred to withdraw to a secluded place and avoided joining the society unless necessary.
Suffa Companions
In Medina, the Prophet built a shaded area adjacent to the Prophet’s Mosque (Mescid-i Nebevî) for poor companions to live in, which gradually became an educational institution known as the “Suffa.” Those residing there were called the “Suffa Companions.” The Suffa is considered the nucleus of Sufi life and the first ascetic movements are believed to have started with the Suffa Companions.
