What does "Sufism" focus on in Islam?

Sufism focuses on the mystical interpretation and practice of Islam, emphasizing the personal, spiritual experience of the Divine over the strictly legalistic or doctrinal aspects often associated with organized religion. Sufis seek to attain a closer, more intimate relationship with God, which they achieve through various practices such as meditation, chanting (dhikr), poetry, and dance (such as the whirling of the dervishes).

This mystical approach encourages the exploration of inner dimensions of faith and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, often prioritizing personal experience and inner transformation over adherence to external laws and traditional practices. The goal in Sufism is not merely to follow Islamic law but to transcend the outer forms to reach a deeper understanding of love and union with the Divine.

In contrast, the other options touch on different aspects of Islam, such as legal frameworks, common practices, or textual study, but do not capture the essence of Sufism, which is fundamentally about personal spiritual journey and mysticism.