Comparative Study of Islamic Sufism and Shamanic Mysticism

Most of the world's mystical schools strive to isolate the seekers and novices from the profane and mundane life and guide them to the real driving force of the world and the mysteries of the sacred world. Shamanism is one of these mystical schools that by its specific rituals and practices takes the seeker into a trance state and ecstatic unconsciousness, and through seeking help from the world of spirits and world of gods makes supernatural wonders take place. Shamanic rituals and customs bear a striking resemblance to Islamic Sufi customs; to the extent that some even believe that Islamic Sufism was influenced by Shamanism. In this study, the authors investigate some of these similarities, including the states of trance and ecstatic unconsciousness, the importance of music and stomp, soul flight and ascension of the seeker, magical flight, mystical austerity, performing supernatural wonders, and the issue of rebirth.