Khanqah

A place where we meet ‘us’

Contents:

Introduction.........................................................................................................3

Motivation............................................................................................................3

Problem statement..............................................................................................3
Aims and Objectives..........................................................................................4

Significance.........................................................................................................4

Scope of the Project..........................................................................................4

Books ...................................................................................................................4
 Khanqah
A place where we meet ‘us’
Sufism is not a religion or a philosophy, it is neither deism nor atheism, nor is it a moral,
nor a special kind of mysticism, being free from the usual religious sectarianism. If ever it
could be called a religion, it would only be as a religion of love, harmony, and beauty.

Hazrat Inayat Khan

Introduction:
“The term khanqah is made up of two Persian words khana-gah and means "a place of
residence" for the Sufis, a "place at the table" or a "place of recitation.”

Persian: Khanqah ( ‫خانقاه‬ ‫رباط‬

), also known as a ribat ( ) is a building designed specifically
for gatherings of a Sufi brotherhood, or tariqa, and is a place for spiritual retreat and
character reformation. In the past, and to a lesser extent nowadays, they often served as
hospices for Sufi travelers and Islamic students.

Place where Sufi saints live, the Sufi Masters held their assemblies in there hospices devotees
of all description including members of royality and hobility and ordinary people flocked
today's Khanqahs they discussed spirituals matter sought the blessing of the Saints in solving
their worldly problem.

Motivation:
Sūfīsm played an important role with their teachings and good morals, for bringing peace,
harmony and Islamic culture in society. Rumi’s sermons and teachings had great influence
over Turkey and throughout the Asia. Khanqah was place of sufi gatherings and Sufi
religious and educational institution. Sufis are very different from rest of the people in many
ways, their way of dressing, way of travelling, their way of eating most importantly their way
of Living. This led my interest to study the kind of spaces they reside because our
surroundings play important role in developing our conscious and subconscious mind.

“I know you're tired but come, this is the way.”

― Jalalu'l-din Rumi

Problem Statement:
We, humans have become lost in digital world that we forgot the importance of sitting with
oneself and other fellows for the sake of spiritual and moral growth.

I am no one in existence but myself.

Ibn Arabi (The Universal Tree and the Four Birds)
Aims and Objectives:
 Encourage the concept of Taswwuf.
 To create a peaceful social space for discussions other than worldly affairs.
 Design with Light, the divine aspect of nature, the serene environment.
 Minimalistic approach to reach the high living standard.
 Revive the concept of fruitful Recreation.
 Achieve the concept of co-living in mystic environment.

Significance:
Purpose of the project is to call people to balance their lives, along with worldly path, to
follow the path of light for their inner soul. Minimalistic design approach and natural
vernacular materials will help achieving the experience of a Sufi lifestyle, teaching and daily
manners as well as to attract people towards this path. It might help in reshaping the concept
of learning.

Scope of the Project:

 Master Plan
 Detailed planning of Khanqah
 Library + Mosque

Books:
“Places of the soul” by Christopher Day

“Spirit & place” by Christopher Day