Steps of Sufi Prayer vs. Steps of Sunni Prayer

Attribute	Steps of Sufi Prayer	Steps of Sunni Prayer
Number of Rakats	Varies	Fixed (2, 4, 3, 4, 4)
Focus	On inner spiritual connection	On following prescribed actions
Physical Movements	Similar to Sunni prayer	Bow, prostrate, sit, stand
Intentions	Focus on intention and sincerity	Intention stated silently
Recitations	May include Sufi poetry or chants	Specific verses from the Quran

Introduction

Sufism and Sunni Islam are two branches of Islam that have different approaches to prayer. While both emphasize the importance of prayer in the life of a Muslim, the steps involved in Sufi prayer and Sunni prayer have some distinct differences. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the steps of Sufi prayer and Sunni prayer to better understand the practices of these two branches of Islam.

Steps of Sufi Prayer

Sufi prayer, also known as dhikr, is a form of prayer that focuses on the remembrance of Allah. The steps of Sufi prayer involve various physical movements and recitations that are meant to bring the practitioner closer to Allah. One of the key aspects of Sufi prayer is the use of music and chanting to create a meditative state. Sufis believe that through this form of prayer, they can achieve a deeper connection with the divine.

• Physical movements
• Recitations
• Use of music and chanting
• Meditative state
• Deeper connection with the divine

Steps of Sunni Prayer

Sunni prayer, also known as Salah, is the ritual prayer that all practicing Muslims are required to perform five times a day. The steps of Sunni prayer involve specific physical movements and recitations that are outlined in the Quran and Hadith. Sunni prayer is a structured form of worship that is meant to demonstrate submission to Allah and seek his guidance. The focus of Sunni prayer is on following the prescribed steps and recitations with devotion and humility.

• Specific physical movements
• Recitations from the Quran and Hadith
• Structured form of worship
• Demonstration of submission to Allah
• Seeking guidance from Allah

Comparison of Attributes

When comparing the attributes of the steps of Sufi prayer and Sunni prayer, one of the key differences is the focus of the prayer. Sufi prayer is more focused on the internal experience of the practitioner, using music and chanting to create a meditative state. Sunni prayer, on the other hand, is more focused on the external actions of the worshipper, following specific physical movements and recitations.

Another difference between the two forms of prayer is the level of structure involved. Sunni prayer is highly structured, with specific steps and recitations that must be followed in a precise manner. Sufi prayer, on the other hand, is more fluid and open to interpretation, allowing for a more personal and individualized approach to worship.

Additionally, the intention behind the prayer is another point of comparison. Sunni prayer is seen as a way to demonstrate submission to Allah and seek his guidance, while Sufi prayer is more focused on achieving a deeper connection with the divine through meditation and chanting.

Despite these differences, both Sufi prayer and Sunni prayer are important aspects of the Islamic faith and are meant to bring the practitioner closer to Allah. Whether one chooses to follow the structured approach of Sunni prayer or the more meditative approach of Sufi prayer, the ultimate goal is the same – to seek the guidance and blessings of Allah.