Sufism is derived from two arabic words i.e saf and saf.the word suf means a carpet.Since the sufis meditated upon god on a carpet .sufism took its birth i.e pure people who meditated on a carpet.The another Arabic word suf which mean wool.The Muslim saints who wore garments of course wool began to be sufisaint.Sufism is said to have began in the 7th century.Sufism also known as Tasawwul is mysticism in Islam.Characterised by values,rituals,practices,doctrine and institutions.it is defined as islamic mysticism.The mystical expression of islamic faith.The inward dimension of Islam OR THE PHENOMENON OF THE OF MYSTICISM WITHIN ISLAM.Sufism began very early in in Islamic history and represents the main and central crystalization of mystical practice in Islam practitioner of Sufism have been reffered to as Sufis.Sufism became incredibly important part of Islam and one of the most widespread and omni present aspects of Mslims life in islamic civilization from the early medieval period onwards.The Sufis think that love and devotion are only means of reaching GOD.Sufism emphosizes upon leading a simple life and does not believe in caste system.Sufis believes Prophet Muhammad.Devotion to Prophet Muhammad is an exceptionally strong practice within the Sufism.According to Ibn Arabiis-lam is best religion because of prophet Muhammed states that Prophet Muhammed wisdom is uniqueness because he is the most perfect existent creature of this species.Sufis believe Sharia (extoric)tariqa is used for a school or order of Sufism especially for the mystical teaching and spiritual practices of such an order with the aim of of seeking haqiqah.Atariqa has a Murshid who plays the role of leader or spiritual director.The members or followers of a tariqa are known as murdin desiring the knowledge of knowing GOD and loving .Prominent Sufis 1.ABDUL- KHADER JILANI (RH) 2.Ibn Arabi (RH) 3.Junaid of Bagdad (RH) 4.Moinuddin Chishti (RH) 5.Nizam – Ud -Din Aulia(RH)