After decades of decline, Sufism is again gaining ground and followers, both in the muslim sphere of the world as in the diaspora communities of the West. Sufism, known as tasawwuf in the Arabic-speaking world, is a form of Islamic mysticism that emphasises introspection and spiritual closeness with God. While it is sometimes misunderstood as a sect of Islam, it is actually a broader style of worship that transcends sects, directing followers’ attention inward. Sufis can be found all over the Muslim world, in the Sunni and Shiite heartlands as well as in remoter corners of the Islamic universe.

I travelled to some regions where sufism traditionally played an important role in both the religious and political history. Mainly to understand better who they are and how modern sufism is influencing life in these countries and how they deal with this spiritual heritage. I researched this in Spain, Morocco, Turkey, Senegal and Uzbekistan where I met sufis and talked to them about the importance of Islam in their life. While travelling in this spiritual universe, I was especially touched by the devotion of most people I met, their relentless spiritual search to better themselves, while all the time staying in touch with our modern rapidly evolving world. Every follower seeks to get closer to God by acquiring spiritual learning. This learning, this quest is also known as 'the Way', the 'Tariqa'.