The Living Tradition of Love and Unity
Sufism is a spiritual path that emphasizes direct experience of the Divine through love, devotion, and service. It has taken root in many cultures and languages throughout history, guiding seekers—known as darvishes—to cultivate sincerity, humility, and compassion toward all beings.
In Texas, Sufism took root through the efforts of the Nimatullahi Sufi Order, a living tradition that traces its lineage back more than seven centuries to Shah Nimatullah Wali. The Order emphasizes spiritual practice in everyday life: silent meditation (zikr), poetry and music that awaken the heart, and service to humanity.
The Story of the Houston Center
The Nimatullahi Sufi Order has been active in Greater Houston since the early 1980s. In those early years, the previous Master, Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh, sent several darvishes—disciples of the Order—to Houston to plant the seeds of a Nimatullahi spiritual community. Yet each one, faced with the challenges of finding work, returned home within months.
Determined to create a lasting presence in Texas, Dr. Nurbakhsh sent another darvish, accompanied by his young son. The father found steady employment, and together they began what would become the enduring Nimatullahi presence in Houston. From the start, he hosted regular meditation gatherings twice a week, opening his home to anyone drawn to learn about Sufism. These evenings of silent remembrance, poetry, and conversation quietly nurtured a small but steady circle of seekers.
Over the years, other darvishes came and went. Some stayed only briefly before life’s circumstances led them elsewhere. One devoted seeker lived many miles away yet remained connected for years before moving to another country to retire. Others lived in Houston but attended irregularly due to work. Slowly, a small constellation of seekers began to take shape: a young couple settled nearby; another darvish arrived from New Mexico; a small family moved to Houston; and gradually, a sense of community deepened.
After four decades of this faithful continuity, the present Master, Alireza Nurbakhsh, formally recognized Houston as one of the Order’s centers. Today, the Houston group continues that lineage—gathering weekly to meditate in silence, recite poetry of the Sufi masters, and cultivate love and unity among all who seek the path of the heart.
Sufism Across Texas
While Houston remains the home of the Nimatullahi Sufi Order in Texas, seekers throughout the state—across Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and beyond—connect through shared study, music, and friendship. Over the years, visitors from across Texas have attended Houston gatherings, discovering a spiritual home rooted in openness and the practice of divine remembrance.
Texas is also home to several other Sufi groups and lineages, each expressing the mystical path in its own way. These diverse communities reflect the depth and universality of Sufism itself—a tradition that transcends cultures and languages while pointing all hearts toward love and unity.
We often hear from people across Texas who want to know more about Sufism and the Nimatullahi Order. Whether you’re nearby or a few hours away, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to talk and help you learn more about our gatherings in Houston.
Join a Gathering
The Houston Sufi group meets weekly for silent meditation, readings from Sufi poets such as Rumi and Hafez, and occasional music or conversation. All adults are welcome, regardless of background or previous experience with meditation.
Weekly Schedule
- Thursdays: 6–7 pm
- Sundays: 5–6 pm
Monthly Community Service:
First Saturday of each month, 9 am–1 pm
Our gatherings are open to everyone who feels drawn to the path of Sufism. However, we do ask to meet with each person individually first—a simple conversation to introduce the group, answer questions, and ensure that the setting will be comfortable for you.
You can find details and request an introduction through our Eventbrite page or Meetup group.
For many of us in Houston, these gatherings have become a quiet refuge — a place where we can practice constant remembrance of God and selfless service to humanity.
For more information or to introduce yourself, please email us at darvish@houstonsufi.org or text at (832) 819-1476.
Written by Rizwan as narrated to him by Iraj, Ally, and Mr. Kashani.
Last updated: October 2025