Secrets of Sufism, scholarly heritage, and sacred sites — all in one place!

🔴The mysterious site of Samarkand

🔴Not just a sacred shrine, but a symbol of spirituality, history, and the awakening of knowledge!

There is a place in Samarkand where one feels suspended between the past and the future. Here lie a tomb, history, and the secret philosophy of Sufism. Every stone and every corner seems to speak to the heart. The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan aims to draw the world’s attention to this unique site.

Located in the Akdarya district of Samarkand region, the Mahdumi A’zam Complex is not only a sacred pilgrimage site but also a symbol of spirituality, history, and intellectual revival.

This complex is associated with the eminent representative of the Naqshbandi order, thinker, and spiritual leader Mahdumi A’zam Kosoniy (Sayyid Ahmad Khwaja Dahbedi). He actively participated in the social and political life of his time, promoting ideas of knowledge, morality, and perfection.

The complex includes Mahdumi A’zam’s tomb, domed mausoleums of his descendants, a mosque, and a khanqah. Thousands of pilgrims, scholars, and tourists visit every year to draw spiritual inspiration.

In his works Sharh al-Waladu Sirru Abihi and Asrar al-Nikah, Mahdumi A’zam emphasized the union of external and internal knowledge, the purification of the soul, and living a life of good character.

In these treatises, he stressed that Sufism should not be confined to inner spiritual practices alone but must also inspire service to humanity, honest labor, and compassion — showing that Sufism should permeate all aspects of life.

Historical sources note that rulers considered Mahdumi A’zam their spiritual guide, seeking support and inspiration from his piety and presence. This highlights the outward impact of the Sufi’s inner power, guiding and uplifting society spiritually.

The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, built in Tashkent, aims to showcase the country’s rich Islamic history and its contributions to science and spirituality. As part of this mission, a dedicated exhibition on Mahdumi A’zam’s life and teachings is being established.

Here:

— Manuscripts, scholarly works, and personal artifacts will be displayed;

— Interactive video content will narrate the history of the pilgrimage site;

— A 3D model will allow online visitors to explore the complex virtually.

Thus, the Mahdumi A’zam Complex serves not only as a historical monument but also as a spiritual and educational school, offering inspiration to future generations.

Guzal Beknazarova
P.S. The article may be republished with a reference link to the Center’s official website.