Poly-symbolic Religiosity and the Dilemmas of American Sufism; an Ethnographic Study of Zikr at a Sufi Shrine in Manhattan

Abstract

This ethnographic endeavor seeks to explore the ritual of Zikr and its association with the shift and dilemmas in American Sufism at a Sufi Shrine in Manhattan, The United States of America. The study highlights the ways in which Islam accommodate sociocultural change without losing its traditional identity: It has not changed in essence. Also, it throws light on the ways such monotheistic religions create social relevance for their followers in a culture alien to universalizing discourses and identities. The paper argues that esoteric versions of traditional monotheistic religions, like Sufism are more suited to postmodern religious consciousness of modern day individuals. The study employs the conceptual lens of postmodern religiosity. Four formal interviews of the Sufi followers (dervishes) alongside field jottings that expanded from January 2012 till December 2012 were conducted. The analysis was thematic in nature. The structure of the Zikr ritual was elaborated followed by offering prayer the 'Sushi' way. This form of prayer ensures convivial coexistence amongst intra-religious collectivities. The study concluded that the concept of religiosity is poly-symbolic in nature. The Zikr ritual acts as a distinct plain that invokes a sense of belonging for the participants in diverse settings. American Sufism is multifaceted in essence and in spirits.