Q: Clarification on zikr, self hypnosis in regard to some sufi practices.
1. Are self-hypnosis techniques like whirling dervishes common during the Rumi era, haraam? Are their practices considered a bid'ah?
2. Likewise many groups hold zikr sessions which last a long time. It includes chanting, is this considered a bid'ah?
3. Many buzurgs get buried with a small part of the kiswa fabric. Is this considered a bid'ah? Is calling any of these practices openly a bid'ah, haraam?
A:
1. This is misconstrued. There is no such thing as whirling dervishes.
2. If there is nothing impermissible in the zikr, then the zikr is permissible.
3. If you are referring to the kiswah of the Ka'bah Shareef, then if it has the name of Allah Ta'ala, verses of the Quraan etc. on it, then to bury it with the deceased will not be in keeping with adab and respect.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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