Sunday School Crucifix

[Shin'Ar]

It is believed that much of what the Sufi began as originated from the roots of theirs.

I am not sure by whom that is believed. Sufism as far as I know is considered the esoteric teachings of mohammed transferred orally from those who can understand it to those who can understand it. It certainly did not originate separate from islam only to be incorporated into it later on.

Maybe Mohammed learned some or all of the information through an even older mystical traditions. Like Jesus is suggested to have been instructed by the essenes..

As far as I know most sufi's can name their lineage from teacher to teacher directly back to Muhammed.

By the nature of the religion a lot of information has been added later on. Zen was a big influence on my 'branch'.

They are only introverted because of their persecution by the Muslims and Christians who believe them to be satan worshipers.

Yes I understood that. Something to do considering the stereotypical fallen angel as worthy of respect.

yes, you are speaking of modern version of Sufism. As you said many of the Masters like Jesus and Mohammed gained their enlightenment from Higher Powers/Fields/Consciousness and as always many of those teachings become somewhat changed from their origins.

Sufism is said to be the a part of the Ancient Teachings that date far back into unrecorded history and passed on through, as you noted, a long process of gnosis and evolving consciousness. It is said by many who study the ancient ways that Sufism is what the Templars learned in their travels east and became so protective about.