What is "makrifat"

Makrifat is the name given to the final stage of mystical advancement in some Indonesian Sufi groups. It represents the attainment of intuitive knowledge of spiritual truths.

Makrifat is the highest of four stages of mystical advancement. The first stage, Syariat, refers to the performance of usual Islamic duties. The second stage, Tarekat, refers to special mystical practices. The third stage, Hakekat, refers to reality. The final stage, Makrifat, refers to the attainment of spiritual knowledge.

A metaphor frequently employed to explain the meaning of makrifat involves pearl gathering. Syariat is the boat used to execute the way (tarekata); tarekat is the path of understanding the Realty hakekat is the reality itself; and makrifat is the ability to recognize and understand the reality and reject a false one.