Information
What is M.T.O. Sufi Psychology®?
The term "psychology" comes from the Greek terms "psyche" and "logos". Psyche meant breath, "...hence, life (identified with or indicated by the breath); the animating principle in man and other living beings, the source of all vital activities, the soul or spirit, ... " or , "The animating principle of the universe as a whole, the soul of the world or anima mundi (Murray, 1933)." Logos meant the word or form which expresses a principle; in theology, logos meant the Word of God. So psychology originally meant the word or form expressing the principle of life, the soul or spirit.
Pioneers in what is today called “Western” psychology changed the meaning of the term psychology during the 1900’s, resulting in re-defining psyche as the mind and psychology as the study or science of the mind. That is the popular conception of psychology today. In contrast, the Sufism of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi® has maintained the original definition of the term. Thus, M.T.O. Sufi Psychology is the Science of the Soul.
Sufi Psychology focuses on the primary importance of the spiritual realm and its power in our ordinary, everyday life. In the seventh century, Hazrat Ali stated a basic precept: “If you take care of your inner life, God will take care of your outer life.” The psychology of M.T.O. Shahmagshoudi, School of Islamic Sufism® is a 1400 year-old discipline, a program of training which enables you to take proper care of your inner life and to attain the most elevated state of your own being.
Murray, Sir James A. H. (1933). The Oxford English Dictionary. Oxford: Clarendon Press.
Sufism “...is a method, a way, a discipline that teaches each person the science of exploring one’s own being, unearthing one’s hidden talent and potentials, and discovering the reality of being in this unbounded and infinite tapestry called existence.”
Hazrat Salaheddin Ali Nader Angha, in Sufism and Faith
How can M.T.O. Sufi Psychology® benefit me?
Numerous benefits result from utilizing the principles and practices of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi Sufi Psychology®. At a simple level, they are highly effective in reducing anxiety, reducing stress and in handling the problems of everyday living we all face. As one progresses, addictions are gradually overcome. A state of inner peace, characterized by hope, love, creativity, and a quiet joy, can be attained. The further one advances, the more positive and deeper the results in all aspects of our being --- physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and spiritually.
There are literally hundreds of books, written in several languages over more than a thousand years, attesting to the positive outcomes of Sufi practices. Contemporary works by the Pirs, the Sufi Masters of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi, are suggested in the Publications Section.
Add to the tenderness of your soul for the truth to reveal itself and rejoice your soul.
Molana Hazrat Shah Maghsoud Sadegh Angha in Message from the Soul.
What is Sufi Psychotherapy?
Sufi Psychotherapy is simply the application and utilization of the Sufi principles and practices of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi in the psychotherapeutic setting. It is often used in conjunction with accepted psychotherapeutic practices. Some M.T.O. Sufi Psychology® practices are not appropriate for those who suffer from psychoses.
The bounty of saplings depends upon the attention of the wise and attentive gardener, the safety of the flock on the guidance and protection of the alert shepherd, and the strength of hearts on association with the pure in heart. The best of the chosen is the altar of the heart, so consider carefully into what meadow you lead it and to whom you will entrust its training.
Molana Hazrat Shah Maghsoud Sadegh Angha in Message from the Soul.
Who are the members?
The Sufi Psychology Association welcomes everyone. Our members are of diverse ages, occupations, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds. Sufism transcends traditional concepts of gender, culture, politics, economics, and geography, and welcomes all who are interested and wish to learn.
What kind of an organization is the Sufi Psychology Association?
M.T.O. Sufi Psychology Association® is an educational, non-profit, tax-exempt 501 (c) 3 organization, founded in 1997 by a small group of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi® students who presented a small conference in Sacramento. Since then, activities have been expanded to include at least three conferences a year at different universities, a semi-annual journal, this website, and Tamarkoz® classes, workshops, and retreats. Sufi Psychology Association is authorized to provide CEU’s for those in the helping professions for attending conferences and retreats. All activities are provided and performed by volunteers. There is no paid staff, which enables the provision of amenities such as flowers on the tables and delicious snacks and meals.
How can I join?
It’s easy. Just click on Join us now and fill out the online membership application. Your yearly membership fees help to support the conferences, retreats, workshops and other educational activities, including this website. Yearly membership includes a subscription to Sufism: The Science of the Soul and significantly reduced fees for all Sufi Psychology Association activities. Membership runs from January through December of each calendar year. Information about members is never shared, rented, nor sold.
Join us now