A Scientific and Philosophical Analysis of the Doctrine of Sufism in the Works of E. E. Bertels

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Abstract

This article provides a concise scientific and philosophical analysis of the doctrine of Sufism based on the works of the orientalist and Islamic scholar Evgeny Eduardovich Bertels. It examines the historical development of Sufism, its theoretical foundations, spiritual values, and its role within the Islamic intellectual tradition. Special attention is given to the origins and inner essence of Sufism, as well as the impact of various cultural and philosophical currents on the formation of Sufi thought. The study also reviews the contributions of both Western and Eastern scholars, highlighting the diversity of academic perspectives on Sufism. It emphasizes that Sufism cannot be fully explained only through external cultural and ideological influences resulting from interactions between Islamic and other civilizations. According to Bertels, a deeper understanding requires considering not only historical and philosophical aspects, but also its spiritual content, mystical experience, and religious practice. The author concludes that only a comprehensive and multidimensional approach can adequately reveal the complex nature of Sufism, its doctrinal features, and its rich spiritual heritage within Islamic culture and global philosophical thought.