Islamic Center Of Noorbakhshi StudiesABOUT US
The Islamic Centre of Noorbakhshi Studies (ICONS) is a distinguished institution dedicated to preserving, promoting, and disseminating the profound intellectual and spiritual heritage of the Noorbakhshi Sufi order. With a commitment to safeguarding this invaluable Islamic legacy, ICONS aims to ensure that the teachings of the Noorbakhshi tradition continue to inspire and enlighten future generations. The establishment of ICONS represents not only a response to the contemporary challenges but also a transformative initiative to celebrate and perpetuate the timeless wisdom for the cause of Islamic unity.
By integrating rigorous research with modern tools and platforms, ICONS will facilitate the global dissemination of the teachings of Imam Syed Muhammad Noorbakhsh, Shah-e-Hamdan Syed Ali Hamdani, and other prominent Sufi saints. These teachings, rooted in unity, spirituality, and intellectual growth, will continue to resonate across diverse communities, fostering understanding and cohesion within the Muslim world and beyond.
ICONS will serve as a dynamic intellectual hub, honoring the rich history of the Noorbakhshi tradition while simultaneously charting a path toward a brighter future. In doing so, it will ensure that the Noorbakhshi Sufi tradition remains a beacon of enlightenment and unity for generations to come. Additionally, ICONS will function as a resource center for the followers, offering knowledge, guidance, and support in their spiritual and intellectual pursuits.
Noorbakhshi Sufi Order
The Noorbakhshi tradition is both a Sufi order and an Islamic school of thought, adhering to the jurisprudence (fiqh) of Imam Syed Muhammad Noorbakhsh as a primary source of religious guidance, alongside the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The teachings of Imam Noorbakhsh, Shah Hamdan, and other distinguished Mashaikh of the order promote a moderate and inclusive understanding of Islam, focused on fostering Islamic unity and brotherhood. The Noorbakhshi Sufi order has made significant contributions to the intellectual and spiritual legacy of the Islamic world.
The Noorbakhshi Sufi order has a considerable global following, with major population centers in Pakistan, India, and Iran. The Noorbakhshi diaspora also thrives in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Currently, Pakistan is home to the largest population and intellectual hub of Noorbakhshi Muslims, particularly concentrated in the northern province of Gilgit-Baltistan and major urban centers, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, and Peshawar.
Our Aims and Objectives
The Islamic Center of Noorbakhshi Studies has been established to achieve the following aims and objectives:
1. Advancing knowledge on the lives and teachings of Imam Noorbakhsh and prominent Mashaikh of the Noorbakhshi Sufi order
ICONS will conduct in-depth research and documentation on the life, teachings, and spiritual contributions of Imam Noorbakhsh and other influential Mashaikh of the Sufi tradition, ensuring their intellectual legacy is preserved and widely disseminated.
2. Preserving and protecting the Islamic intellectual heritage, focusing on Sufi literature
ICONS aims to safeguard the rich intellectual heritage of Islam, particularly Sufi literature, by preserving rare books, manuscripts, and other written works. This initiative will emphasize the historical and philosophical contributions of Sufism to Islamic thought.
3. Promoting Islamic unity and brotherhood through interfaith dialogue and a pluralistic approach
ICONS will foster unity and harmony among diverse Islamic sects and other faith communities by encouraging constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and a pluralistic approach to common values, thus strengthening societal cohesion.
4. Disseminating the teachings of Islam and the Noorbakhshi tradition through publications and digital media
ICONS will communicate the teachings of Islam and the Noorbakhshi Sufi tradition through various media, including scholarly publications, digital platforms, and multimedia content, thereby reaching a global audience and promoting deeper understanding.
5. Supporting students and researchers in their pursuit of academic excellence and religious education
ICONS will assist students and scholars in advancing their academic and religious studies by providing resources, mentorship, and guidance, while facilitating their success in competitive exams, research endeavors, and in-depth studies of Islamic and Sufi traditions.
6. Fostering leadership and communication skills among youth and women through targeted programs and initiatives
ICONS will empower youth and women by organizing leadership development programs, communication workshops, and community-building activities that enhance their personal and professional capabilities, while promoting their active participation in societal development.
Departments of ICONS
The ICONS has been organized to have the following departments and sections for managing its programs and activities.
1. Research and Publication Department
2. Library and Manuscripts Department
3. Media & Communications Department
4. Education and Training Department
OUR VALUES
· Leadership
· Excellence
· Pluralism
· Compassion
· Unity
· Respect