Allamah Sayyid Suleman Nadwi (Allah have mercy on him) said,

‘Sultan al-azkar, shugal-e-anhad, kashaf-e-qaboor and things similar to them are not Tasawwuf. They are the art (creation meant to communicate or appeal to senses or mind) of Tasawwuf.

How can art be the reality?

The real purpose of Tasawwuf is to gain Allah’s pleasure and follow the example of Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace).

Yes, if any of these things are acquired involuntarily then it is another discussion.’

Tazkirah e Suleman, page 332

Karachi