"Sufi Education and Its Philosophical Dimensions in Protecting Youth from Extremism and Intellectual Deviation"(Analytical Study)

 Islamic Sufism is considered one of the most prominent educational and spiritual schools concerned with shaping the individual morally and intellectually. It employs methodologies aimed at refining the self, purifying the heart, and elevating human values. This research focuses on studying the educational dimensions of Sufism, particularly its ability to shape youth consciousness and protect them from falling into the traps of extremist ideologies and behavioral or intellectual deviation. It demonstrates that the Sufi approach—with its principles of asceticism, self-purification, tolerance, and goodwill toward others—strengthens the mental and spiritual resilience of youth against deviant currents that exploit spiritual emptiness or emotional impulsiveness.

The study further reveals that Sufi education is not merely a set of ritual practices, but rather an integrated system linking individual conduct with social dimensions, thereby reinforcing the values of balance and moderation. By examining both historical and contemporary Sufi experiences, the research shows that Sufism contributes to promoting a culture of dialogue and rejecting violence, while providing individuals with intellectual and psychological tools that enable them to confront intellectual rigidity and extremism.

The research concludes that integrating Sufi education into educational curricula, or at least benefiting from its values and principles, constitutes an important preventive factor in protecting youth from extremism and radicalism. Moreover, it emphasizes that Sufi thought, with its universal humanistic orientation, plays a vital role in building a cohesive society grounded in moderation and balance, making it a key resource in addressing intellectual deviation and safeguarding future generations.

Key words: Sufi Education       Extremism                 Ideological Deviation