| Author/Contributor(s): | Frager, Robert; Fadiman, James |
| Publisher: | HarperOne |
| Date: | 11/17/1999 |
| Binding: | Paperback |
| Condition: | NEW |
Discover the living heart of Islamic mysticism through timeless poetry, contemplative prayer, and insightful teaching stories.
The definitive compendium of Sufi wisdom, 'Essential Sufism' draws together more than three hundred fables, poems and prayers that reveal the luminous spirit of Islamic mysticism.
Embracing all eras and highlighting the many faces of Sufism, this collection gathers classic writings from more than thirteen hundred years of spiritual tradition. Editors James Fadiman and Robert Frager organize these selections into thematic chapters that illuminate the inner dimensions of devotion and service.
The volume features celebrated masters such as Rumi, al-Ghazzali, and Attar alongside the witty teaching tales of Mulla Nasruddin. Sufi masters and contemporary teachers provide accessible commentaries that connect mystical practice with daily life in the world.
- Guide to Sufism: Explores the core progression from religious law (shariah) and the desert path (tariqah) to direct experience of truth (haqiqah) and mystical gnosis (marifah).
- Spiritual Awakening: Traces the inner journey through the seven levels of the self, transforming the desires of the commanding ego into the tranquility of the pure soul.
- Daily Practices: Details traditional exercises for opening the heart, including breath meditation, contemplation of death, and chanting the ninety-nine Divine Names in dhikr ceremonies.
- Islamic Teachings: Examines the foundational Five Pillars of Islam alongside sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, illustrating how outer religious observance supports profound inner realization.