I wanted to say something in response to goings on in the Middle-East.

But, I won't, except to say that it interesting how a more loosely
organized faith has survived, based on Islam.

That is the Suni Faith. In truth, I know little about their mysticism.
But, I enjoy their energy, and adherance to polite or caring behavior.
Their expression through music speaks to me of the unleashing of
constraints that might otherwise be deleterious.

I used to be an idealist. Then an iconoclast. Now, I am interested
in creative alternatives, without being too disruptive...

I explored this well organized, and pleasant musical representation.


http://www.ibiblio.org/gnawastories/

http://www.shaykhnazim.net/video/gnawa/apr02/OH01.asf

Isn't it Sunni just a major branch of Islam? (the other one is Shi-ites). I think it is a charismatic movement (yes it can be found within Islam as well). Let's hope that they can convert the suicide bombers into musicians.

Thanks, PsychicPenguin.

I should have mentioned this group as being a people who practice
a form of Suni Islam. They are called the Gnawans.

Some of their ancestors were traders in the Saharan North Africa.
Because of the desert, they sought refuge in trancendental experience.
Other modern Gnawans came from Ghana and Guinea ('Gnawa').
They were originally sold as slaves in Morocco, by arab traders.

The tribe later became eclectic in their religion, living in Morocco,
and fused muslim and christian beliefs with their own,
especially the trancendental experience.
They focus on the 'Lila' healing ceremony...

I am sure that Sunis practice certain spiritual beliefs. And, of course,
the Gnawans are a minority. But, I hope to learn more.

So, thanks!

The mystial branch of Islam is Sufi. If youre interested in Mystic Islam..research the Sufi.

Oh Thanks PrettyAndCorrupt.. I remembered reading about it a long time ago.. but could not recall the name

I second the thanks. I now, for the first time, know something about
Islam, the Sunnis, and the Sufis.
The term Sufis refers to woolen robes, worn by ascetics.
They also gave rise to the Whirling Dervishes.
They meditated upon the heart centers, and the mind, to cleanse
the self-centered ego, and be filled with a divine love.

I will agree to that! Dance and meditation sounds healthy!

PrettyandCorrupt- I had to do a reality check, regarding the actions
of Hindus and Muslims, in Kurdistan. I worked in the medical field
briefly, and learned to be very strong, and objective, and make
things go right. But, I was detached and numb from what people
do- I will say no more. Peace, prosperity, and harmony.