Nimatullahi Sufi Order
The Nimatullahi Sufi Order is a spiritual tradition dedicated to the unity of all beings and the selfless service of humanity through love and devotion.
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If you do not have a beloved, seek!
If you are in union, rejoice.
— Rumi
The Nimatullahi Sufi Order is a spiritual tradition dedicated to the unity of all beings and the selfless service of humanity through love and devotion.
The Nimatullahi Sufi Order traces its origins to Shah Nimatullah Wali, a revered Sufi master of Iran. After extensive travels across the Islamic world, he established his Khāneqāh (spiritual center) in Mahan, Kerman, where he remained until his passing in 1431 AD. Shah Nimatullah emphasized integrating spiritual practice with daily work and community service. As a farmer, he encouraged his followers to pursue vocations that contributed to society.
Before his passing, Shah Nimatullah Wali appointed his eldest son and spiritual successor, Shah Khallilullah, to continue his teachings. At the invitation of the Sultan of Deccan, India, Shah Khallilullah relocated there, leading to a 350-year period of flourishing for the Order in India.
The Order returned to Iran in the late 18th century under the leadership of Ma’sum Ali Shah. Within seventeen years, he initiated and trained numerous disciples, leading to a rapid expansion. However, this resurgence was met with resistance from the orthodox clergy, who viewed Sufi teachings as a threat. As a result, many followers faced persecution, culminating in the martyrdom of Ma’sum Ali Shah in Kermanshah.
A second revival occurred under Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh, the first modern master of the Order to receive a university education, with a background in medicine and exposure to Western thought. Under his guidance, the Order reconnected with its roots in Sufism from the Khorasan region and the principles of javanmardi (spiritual chivalry), as exemplified by great Sufi masters such as Bayazid Bastami and Abu Said Abul Khayr. These teachings emphasize selfless service, compassion, and prioritizing the welfare of others. At the heart of the Order’s practice lie the remembrance of God, loving-kindness, and service to all beings.
Following the Islamic Revolution in 1979, increased hostility and intolerance towards minorities and Sufis in Iran led Dr. Nurbakhsh to emigrate, first to the United States and later to the United Kingdom. Under his leadership, the Nimatullahi Order expanded globally. Today, the Order has established 36 centers across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Russia, West Africa, and Australia.
The Nimatullahi Sufi Order is deeply rooted in the values of mohabbat (universal loving-kindness) and javanmardi (spiritual chivalry), fostering relationships based on selflessness, empathy, and communal well-being. A key spiritual practice within the Order is silent meditation, which cultivates inner peace and mindfulness. Members are encouraged to attend twice-weekly group meditation sessions, where they engage with Sufi discourses and poetry.
The present master, Dr. Alireza Nurbakhsh, succeeded his father, Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh, upon his passing in 2008. Holding a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Alireza Nurbakhsh also practiced as a solicitor in the UK for several years. Under his leadership, the Order has expanded its charitable initiatives, establishing programs in each center to support the social and economic needs of their communities. He currently resides in London, England.
The Nimatullahi Sufi Order welcomes sincere seekers in search of spiritual guidance and selfless service. Those interested are encouraged to reach out and arrange a visit to one of the Order’s centers worldwide.