The Inner School of the Inayatiyya is a school of study and practice for those who wish to travel a Sufi path toward self-realization as taught and exemplified by Hazrat Pir-o-Murshid Inayat Khan, Noor-un-Nisa Inayat Khan, Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan and Pir Zia Inayat Khan.
The goal of the Inner School is to awaken sympathy with all and the awareness of the inner life to the point that it becomes a natural constant presence in one’s life, which is called realization.
Towards this end, the Inner School offers its members individual spiritual guidance and practices, retreats, programs and classes. As the seeker gains confidence in their developing spiritual vocation, they find inner resources to meet the needs of life at the same time they give scope to the desire of their soul. This ongoing integration is a hallmark of the method.
What may be thought of the path of initiation? The aim is to find God within yourself: to dive deep within yourself, that you may be able to touch the unity of the Whole Being. By the power of initiation, towards this end you work, so that from within you may get all the inspiration and blessing in your life.
– Hazrat Inayat Khan, Social Gathekas 8. The Path of Initiation.
Members, called Murids, are those who have been initiated into the Inner School. Those who are seeking initiation into the Inner School have prepared for this step by taking six months to a year to become familiar with the teachings of Hazrat Inayat Khan, Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, and Pir Zia Inayat Khan and by attending classes at a center in person or online. They may receive the initiation of blessing as an Ashiq, a friend of the Inayatiyya, at the beginning of this period but this is not required.
The Inner School is not a religion or tied to a particular religion; many Murids find that their work in the Inner School deepens their understanding and connection to their own religion.
The guide is a midwife to those who come before them to bring forth the precious and subtle aspect of their being.
– Aziza Scott, Emeritus Head of the Inner School.
Guides and teachers in the Inner School are rigorously trained in the development of realization in people in a safe and supportive manner. They work in many localities and online.
Inayatiyya Centers offer classes by authorized teachers and the companionship of the community of seekers. Intensive study is offered through the Suluk Academy as well as through individually guided Inayatiyya Retreats available with specially trained retreat guides.
Suluk Academy is at the heart of the Inner School and is especially valuable for new Murids to gain a comprehensive foundation in the teachings and practices of the Inner School in-person and/or online. Additional details about Suluk Academy may be found at sulukacademy.org.
***