Silsila
The chain of spiritual transmission linking a Sufi order back through its masters.
Literally: chain; spiritual lineage
The silsila — the unbroken chain of spiritual transmission linking a Sufi order back through its masters to the Prophet, the line of authority and grace into which a disciple is initiated. Iqbal honoured the great orders and their heritage of spiritual energy, while criticizing the degeneration of some lineages into hollow hereditary custodianship. His own avowed link is spiritual rather than institutional: Rumi as the master of his soul.
Bai'at
The oath of allegiance a disciple pledges to a spiritual master on entering the path.
Tariqat
The mystical path or Sufi order; the inward way toward God, contrasted with the outward law.
Murshid
A spiritual guide or master who directs the disciple along the path to God.
Pir
An elder or Sufi master; the spiritual preceptor to whom disciples give allegiance.
Bayat
The oath of allegiance a disciple swears to a spiritual master on entering the path.