Consumerist mentality has pervaded all facets of life and has become call of the day. Even religion is not free from consumerism. People are trying to quantify God's blessing in return of rituals performed. And putting religion on a cause and effect mechanical basis. This is diverting human attention from meekness and humble beseeching of His grace and Mercy. On the other hand, Sufism is being per
verted and made corrupt by fakes and self-seekers. People are flocking to 'Peers/Sheikhs/Spiritual leaders' for mundane benefit and relief, and this is being encouraged. In this way as well, Sufism succumbs to consumerist mentality. In the nineteenth century there was a strong backlash to Sufism in the Arabian peninsula and the world at large. This was in the name of reformism. But in the long run these reformist movements have managed to distort the very spirit of Islam. So-called Islamic politics is being guided by and large to fulfill self-interests and sectarian ideologies. On many instances these politicians have taken up armed conflict as a method, bringing in immeasurable suffering to human being instead of peace and elevation of the level of human consciousness. In this chaotic background of the present, it has been felt that Islam should be brought back to its proper perspective. Suffering, subjugation and injustice should be replaced with preaching of peace, harmony and tranquility and ultimately elevating the level of human consciousness. This is a sure way for the saving of the planet Earth from man-made destruction. The Shahbaz Center will focus on the traditional teaching of Tasawwuf and not confine itself to a particular Silsilah or Tariqa, welcoming all to know their true selves and thus know God. Tasawwuf is not only particular knowledge, but also a practice and a process of elevation of consciousness to a level uncharted. This center humbly wants to introduce academic Sufism to the people interested.
