Meer Hassan Ali, B.: Observations on the Mussulmauns of India: descriptive of their manners, customs, habits, and religious opinions ; made during a twelve years residence in their immediate Society (Band 2) (London, 1832)

THE DURWEISH AND SOOFIES. 273

by His creatures." Thus prepared, the person
is to receive instruction from a Calipha, (head or
leader of the Soofies), who directs the pupil in
certain exercises of the heart, which constitute
the secrets of their profession. What these
exercises are, I am not competent to give an
opinion, but judging by the way a real Soofie
conducts himself, it may be presumed his
practices are purely religious ; for I am assured
that he is devoted to all good ways ; that he
carefully avoids worldly vanities, and every
species of temptation and alluring gratification
of the senses ; that he is incessant in prayer,
and in fasting severe; free from all prejudice, as
regards the belief or persuasion of other men,
so long as they worship God alone; regarding
all mankind as brothers, himself the humblest
of the race; claiming no merit for the ascen-
dancy he has acquired over earthly wishes, he
gives glory alone to God, whom he loves and
worships.

All the Durweish are of the Mussulmaun
persuasion. Many are devout Durweish, who
are, nevertheless, unacquainted with the mys-

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