Who We Are
Who We Are
Marifah aims to cultivate noble qualities such as self-purification, purification of the heart, moral etiquette, the state of doing what is beautiful (ihsan), nearness to God, gnosis (ma’rifat), annihilation (fana) and subsistence (baqa) to transform the seeker into a morally upright person through spiritual training.
In today's fast-paced and materialistic world, finding a balance between our daily demands and inner yearnings can be challenging. While many options are available for knowledge-seeking, the Sufi teachings, passed down through authorized teachers, provide a comprehensive spiritual philosophy that can be integrated into our lives. The Naqshbandi-Mujaddidi lineage, in particular, has developed practical techniques for spiritual training that can be applied to work, family, and social responsibilities.
The Sufi teachings have uplifted seekers for generations and continue to benefit seekers of diverse aptitudes and natures today. The endurance of these teachings is attributed to the blessings of esteemed shaykhs from centuries past.
“You hold the key to unlock the door of God's Light, and it is within your heart. The door is open for you to discover that we are all one family without division. This is the essence of the Sufi path, which emphasizes the unity of God and humanity. We are all brothers and sisters and share one message of love and peace. If you are ready to learn and explore your true identity, you are welcome. All the resources you need are already within your heart - you are a precious jewel. Embrace the message of love, peace, mercy, justice, and freedom, and discover the beauty of the Sufi way.” ~ Serkar Mubarak
Marifah Sufi Center
For several years, Marifah has been dedicated to assisting countless individuals in establishing and nurturing a deep connection with their genuine and divine selves. Our team is composed of individuals with diverse backgrounds, such as healers, therapists, business executives, and educators. Each teacher has undergone years of training and has successfully incorporated sacred principles and techniques into their everyday routine, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their craft.
At Marifah, we welcome everyone, regardless of their background or belief system. Whether you seek to explore what we have to offer before returning to your own community or consider us a part of your spiritual family, we are committed to providing compassionate and practical support tailored to your needs.
We want to emphasize that the love and connection experienced at Marifah can be carried with you in every moment of your life, regardless of your path.
“My dear, be aware of the divine presence that surrounds you and recognize the voice that speaks to your heart. If you listen to me, you will know me. But if you truly desire to understand me, you must delve deeper into yourself. There is no voice that can guide you but the one that arises from your own quest for truth.” ~ Serkar Mubarak
Our Guide
The Sufi tradition has a long history of spiritual teachers and leaders known as Guides. Each Sufi order recognizes a Guide who is renowned within the community for their depth of wisdom, compassion, and love. Sarkar Mubarak holds the position of Guide in the Naqshbandi Sufi Order, and he is recognized as a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. His leadership provides guidance to the members of the order who seek a deeper understanding of Sufi teachings.
The Naqshbandi Sufi Order traces its origins to the Silsilah Khwajagan, which originated in Turkestan. The Khwajagan was a group of Sufi masters, among whom were Khwajah Ahmed Yasawi and Khwajah Abdul al-Khaliq Ghujdawani, who lived in the 12th century. Ghujdawani is credited with coining certain technical and spiritual terms that are still used within the Naqshbandi tariqah. He also made the teachings of the order accessible and relevant to the people of his time.
Khwaja Baha’uddin Naqshband Bukhari is the prominent Sufi Shaykh after whom the Naqshbandi tariqah is named. He lived in the 14th century and continued the tradition of making the spiritual teachings and practices of Sufism more applicable to the changing times in which he lived. Naqshband was a student and later the khalifa (successor) of Amir Kulal. He received instruction from the ruhaniya (or spiritual being) of Khwajah Abdul Khaliq Ghujdawani, who gave him the practice of silent dhikr.
The Naqshbandi tariqah is distinct in that it traces its lineage to Prophet Muhammad through Abu Bakr as Siddiq, the first Caliph of Islam. Other Sufi tariqahs trace their lineage through Ali ibn Abu-Talib, the fourth Caliph of Islam. The Naqshbandi Sufi Order offers a unique perspective on Sufi teachings and practices, and its lineage adds to its distinctiveness within the larger Sufi tradition. The teachings and practices of the Naqshbandi tariqah continue to be relevant in modern times, providing guidance to those seeking a deeper understanding of the spiritual aspects of Islam.
