Tolerance heritage: The route of sufism from khorasan to the Balkans

Abstract

The necessity for peaceful coexistence today makes clearer the requirement for study on tolerance. The vast region from Central Asia-Khorasan to the Balkans has had its ups and downs for centuries in the study of its historical geography. The diversity of nations and tribes along this path highlights the attention to common cultural components. Meanwhile, the existence of various Sufi groups throughout the history in the region has a special character. The idea of Sufism was essentially based on tolerance and grew into a Peaceful coexistence. However, various Sufi groups have experienced violence at historic junctures by entering the political arena. But it must be said that the distinction between cultural and ideological Sufism has shown peaceful life. This article endeavor to introduce the Sufism growth and development in different regions so that a significant and plausible path can be drawn as a Sufi Road. In addition, the legacy of Sufism has been activated by its cultural image in the areas in question, showing many similarities between different Sufi groups in various countries. The homogeny among the cultural components of Sufism in the geography of the region are a way for dialogue. As a result, one can experience cultural exchange in the form of coexistence and tolerance. © 2020 Authors. Center for Study of Religion and Religious Tolerance, Belgrade, Serbia.