From the belief system of Islam is the origins of Sufism. Sufism is often said to be the mystical branch of Islam.
Realizing a mystical connection with the divine or experiencing unity with God or mystical love is one of the aims of Sufism.
In Sufism the practice of chanting songs, or texts and poetry is practiced to reach this objective. Qawwali is the name given to this type of music.
Qawwali music is a devotional form of vocal music. The function of this music is a spiritual function in facilitating the divine connection. This is the central purpose of this devotional form of music of Qawwali.
Qawwali music has particular musical characteristics and fits into the category of North Indian Classical music.
A particular chanting practice is used in order to arouse the emotional and spiritual connection with God. This chanting practice is the recitation of God’s name. The name of this chanting practice is called “zikr”. While “sama” is the name given to the listening practice of this devotional music.
Zikr and sama set the context in order to experience the emotional connection to God within Sufism. The poetry or text is the vehicle through which the mystical love is communicated and experienced. This poetry or text is given a musical setting.
The performers aim is to bring about an intensification of the text for the listeners experience. The singer will shape via improvisation the structure of the music in such a way that this can be done. The singer uses repetition of phrases, clapping and changes in tempo to intensify the emotions of the listeners.
Intensification has two functions and operates to reinforce and also generate increased spiritual arousal.
The performer is acutely aware of the impact of his performance on the listeners. As long as the song is effecting the audience, it is continued. Once the effect of a song has stopped it will be stopped and another song will commence.
Thus the practice of chanting within the tradition of Sufism is used to experience a unity with God or a feeling of mystical love and connection.
