Ma'rifa

Sufi mystics attain maʿrifa by embarking on a spiritual journey, typically consisting of various stages referred to as "stations" and "states."

"[3] In essence, ma‘rifa involves recognizing that one's self is intricately connected to and an essential aspect of the divine Reality.

[4] The term 'arif, meaning "gnostic," has been employed to describe accomplished mystics who have reached the elevated spiritual stage of maʿrifa.

[5] According to al-Qushayri, a mystic attains the state of ma‘rifa when the inner temptations of his soul subside, and his heart is no longer drawn towards thoughts that deviate from God.

[5] In Sufi teachings, ma'rifa is frequently contrasted with ilm, which signifies knowledge gained through learning, and "'aql," which represents rational intellect.

Sufi writers elucidate ma'rifa as a profound experiential understanding of the Divine, not something attainable solely through human efforts, but rather a bestowed gift from God, etching itself upon the seeker's heart.

Ma'rifa signifies a transformative and intimate understanding of the Divine reality that surpasses mere intellectual comprehension.

He emphasizes that the Qur'an does not endorse this differentiation, as it considers the profound knowledge of God that inspires reverence to be encompassed within 'ilm alone.

[7] According to Annemarie Schimmel, the final stages of the mystical path are represented by love (mahabba) and gnosis (maʿrifa).

"[8]Marifa is often considered one of the "Four Doors" of Sufism: A metaphor to explain the meaning of ma'rifa involves pearl gathering.