The Roles of Sufi Teachings in Social Movements: An HRD Perspective. Issue 2 (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Budhwani, Nadir N.; McLean, Gary N.
• Is Part Of: Advances in developing human resources. Volume 21:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 205
• Page End: 223
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: Sufism -- spirituality -- social movement -- learning -- development; Personnel management -- Periodicals; Organizational effectiveness -- Periodicals; Human capital -- Periodicals; 658.30105
• DOI: 10.1177/1523422319827938
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1523-4223

Abstract

The Problem: There is a growing need to explore the role of the centuries-old tradition of Sufism and its teachings which, through social movements, have contributed to, and continue to influence, human resource development (HRD) at various levels—individual, group, organization, community, nation, and international. The Solution: To address this need, we present cases of social movements inspired by Sufi teachings in selected parts of the world. We discuss, using literature and personal experiences, links among Sufi teachings, social movements, and HRD, and provide a framework for understanding Sufi teachings within the context of the social movement phenomenon. We end with recommendations for practice and research. The Stakeholders: We target broadening the horizons of HRD researchers, practitioners, civil society members, and social movement activists, encouraging them to address long-term changes and collective learning through the quest for unconditional love and liberation, which represent the core of Sufi teachings.