SûfIs

Sûfis a sect of mystic philosophers in Persia, which was founded in the 9th century by Abul Klair. It has contained among its members many of the most noted Mohammedan scholars and poets. Schamyl, the famous Circassian leader, is said to have belonged to this sect, and to have given to it a semi-political character, directing it especially against the aggressions of the Russians. They are to be found in every part of the empire; have their acknowledged head at Shiraz and their chief men in all the principal cities. Mr. Martyn, missionary to that country, calls them "mystic latitudinarians." For the tenets, see Sûfism.