A Comparative Analysis of Sufi and Salafi’s Perspectives on Relics in Islam

Abstract

The veneration of relics holds significant spiritual and historical importance in Islam, particularly among Sufi circles, where it serves as a means for seeking blessings (tabarruk) and intercession (tawassul). In contrast, modern Salafiyyah scholars critique such practices, deeming them innovations (bidʿah), acts of infidelity (kufr), and polytheism (shirk). This paper comparatively analyzes the perspectives of Sufis and Salafis on relics to evaluate the theological and historical validity of these divergent views. Employing historical and exegetical methods, the study draws from primary Islamic sources, including the Qur’an, Hadith, and classical commentaries, as well as contemporary scholarly opinions. The findings reveal that the reverence for relics has a precedent in the early Islamic community, notably among the Prophet’s companions, who preserved and sought blessings from his remains and belongings. Sufis however build on this to venerate the relics of saints and pious figures. The Salafis restrict such practice to the Prophet and argue that it has ended with his demise. The research identifies that Sufi's veneration of the relics is informed by the belief that pious people do not die but can still function before their death. Conversely, Salafi's objection is largely based on practice as they did not contend the principle. It (objection) stems from concerns over potential excesses and theological distortions. The paper concludes that although certain Sufi practices may exhibit arbitrariness, the outright condemnation and destruction of relics, as advocated by some Salafiyyah scholars, lacks merit and undermines Islamic heritage. A balanced framework is thus proposed to preserve relics while curbing extremes in veneration.