The name Sufi probably comes from the patched woolen garments preferred by the mystics; they did not deny the Islamic doctrine. Sufis became increasingly popular in Muslim societies because of their modesty, dedication, and eagerness to serve the needs of their fellow human beings. Sufi missionaries were particularly effective because they valued obedience to <em>Allah </em>-almighty God in the Islamic tradition- above doctrinal supremacy and accepted continued observance of pre-Islamic customs.
