The changing face of Sufi orders : the neo-Sufi aspects of two traditional orders in Australia : Nimatullahiya and Naqshbandiya

The specific focus of this presentation is a preliminary evaluation of the development of Nimatullahi and Naqshbandi Sufi orders in the West. One of the reasons for comparing and contrasting these two orders is that although they have originated in similar socio-political and religio-cultural climates within fourteenth century Iran, and that they have similar history, as they have both been affected by similar changes due to their extension, persecution and migration, their relations to the West and to the 'authenticity' of their tradition appears different in Australia. These two groups have been chosen to reflect how two similar Sufi groups, in a similar context, have shifted somewhat dramatically in their approach to adapting to a modern climate. These two groups are specifically, the Nimatullahi Khaniqahi order and the Khalidi branch of Naqshbandi order. The Nimatullahis have undertaken many changes in their approach to Sufi praxis since the succession of Javad Nurbakhsh, and have modernised dramatically since 1999 (with significant modifications to their customs). The Naqshbandis, although adopting a business (and even corporate) front in presenting a fully integrated community of Muslims, nevertheless, maintain a stricter sense of adherence to Islamic orthodoxy. Furthermore, the Naqshbandis are far more politically active than the Nimatullahis.