From Mystical Unveiling to Spiritual Therapy: Kasyf and the Reconstruction of Sufi Healing in the Syadziliyah
Achmad Sauqi
Tribakti Jurnal Pemikiran Keislaman February 3, 2026 DOI: 10.33367/tribakti.v37i1.8008 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Santri in the Syadziliyah Sufi tradition in Tulungagung, Indonesia, who have undergone kasyf |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key findings | Argues that kasyf supports tazkiyatun nafs (self-purification) and enhances spiritual well-being, and that differing levels of kasyf among santri practicing the same zikir indicate it is a divinely bestowed experience rather than a structured objective. Proposes "soul-knowledge," combining self-knowledge and tazkiyatun nafs, as an alternative to Karim Mitha's notion of "self-knowledge." |
Abstract
This article seeks to discuss of kasyf—the unveiling of inner truths—in the Syadziliyah Sufi healing practices of Tulungagung, Indonesia, focusing on santri experiences. Employing a phenomenological approach, data were gathered through observations and in-depth interviews with santri who have undergone kasyf. This article argues that kasyf significantly supports tazkiyatun nafs (self-purification) and enhances spiritual well-being. Notably, santri display differing levels of kasyf despite following the same zikir practices, highlighting its nature as a divinely bestowed experience rather than a structured objective. This sets Syadziliyah healing apart from other Sufi traditions, which often emphasize more systematic spiritual and psychological frameworks. The study also critiques Karim Mitha’s notion of “self-knowledge,” proposing “soul-knowledge”—an integrative framework combining self-knowledge and tazkiyatun nafs—to guide salik toward discovering the “true soul.” The research presents a novel model of transformative Sufi healing in the Syadziliyah tradition, emphasizing individualized spiritual experiences and the central role of divine grace in personal spiritual development.