The Most Famous Sufi, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the Sufi you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 2, 2024 07:13

In the heart of spiritual refinement and poetic mysteries, Sufism has nurtured a legacy of profound teachers and mystics whose lives and teachings continue to inspire millions. These luminaries have shaped not only the spiritual contours of their communities but have offered universal wisdom and pathways toward personal transcendence and peace. This ranking invites enthusiasts and newcomers alike to participate in acknowledging the influential figures of Sufism. By casting your votes, you contribute to a collective recognition of spiritual wisdom and ensure that the teachings of significant Sufi mystics remain alive and relevant in contemporary discourse.

Who Is the Most Famous Sufi?

1

70
votes

Rumi

Rumi is a 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic whose works have been translated into multiple languages and remain popular to this day.
2

21
votes
Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Ibn Arabi

Ibn Arabi is a 12th-century Andalusian Sufi philosopher who wrote extensively on spirituality, metaphysics, and mysticism.
Ibn Arabi in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Sufi poet
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous Arab poet
3

32
votes

Al-Ghazali

Al-Ghazali is an 11th-century Persian theologian and Sufi mystic who wrote on a variety of topics, including philosophy, ethics, and spirituality.
4

9
votes

Hafiz

Hafiz is a 14th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic known for his lyrical and romantic poetry.
5

12
votes

Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Rabia al-Basri

Rabia al-Basri - an 8th-century female Sufi saint and mystic who is known for her devotional poetry and teachings on love and union with God.
6

20
votes

Hossein Behzad · Public domain

Jalaluddin Rumi

Jalaluddin Rumi is a 13th-century Persian poet and Sufi mystic who founded the Mevlevi Order of Sufism, also known as the Whirling Dervishes.
7

9
votes

Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Fariduddin Attar

Fariduddin Attar is a 12th-century Persian Sufi poet and mystic who wrote extensively on spirituality and the quest for inner truth.
8

12
votes

Jacopo188 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Shams Tabrizi

Shams Tabrizi is a 13th-century Persian Sufi mystic and spiritual teacher who is said to have been a close companion and mentor to Rumi.
9

9
votes

Unknown · Public domain

Mansur al-Hallaj

Mansur al-Hallaj is a 9th-century Persian Sufi mystic and poet who is known for his controversial statements about his union with God and his subsequent execution for heresy.
10

7
votes

Riznaldo · CC BY-SA 4.0

Bayazid Bastami

Bayazid Bastami is a 9th-century Persian Sufi mystic and saint who is known for his teachings on the spiritual path and his emphasis on divine love and surrender.

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Ranking factors for famous Sufi

Historical significance

The influence and impact a Sufi figure had on the development and evolution of Sufism through their teachings, writings, and actions.
Contribution to Sufi literature

The quality and quantity of their literary works, including poetry, prose, and treatises, and the extent to which their writings have been influential and widely read.
Spiritual teachings and practices

The depth and uniqueness of their spiritual teachings, methodologies, and practices that continue to inspire and guide Sufis and spiritual seekers.
Global reach and influence

The extent to which their teachings and traditions have gained recognition and followers worldwide, beyond their local or regional influence.
Popularity and followers

The number of followers, disciples, and individuals who have been inspired by their teachings, as well as the longevity and continued relevance of their spiritual lineage or order.
Enduring legacy

The continued impact and relevance of their teachings and practices in contemporary Sufism and the broader spiritual landscape.
Personal transformative experiences

The personal experiences, states of consciousness, or mystic insights that the Sufi figure attained and shared, contributing to the mystical and inward journey of individuals.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Sufi. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Sufi is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2546 views
192 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Sufi once every 24 hours. The rank of each Sufi is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous sufi

Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes the importance of spiritual connection with God. It originated in the Middle East in the 8th century and has since spread throughout the world. Sufi practitioners follow a path of self-discovery and inner transformation, seeking to achieve a state of enlightenment and unity with the divine. Over the centuries, many famous Sufis have emerged, each with their own unique teachings and practices. From Rumi, the renowned Persian poet, to Ibn Arabi, the celebrated philosopher and mystic, Sufism has produced a rich and diverse array of spiritual leaders and thinkers. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous Sufis and their contributions to the tradition.