Sufism: An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam

(Paperback)

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"An Introduction to the Mystical Tradition of Islam "This comprehensive introduction to the mystical traditions that arose in the Islamic world includes discussions of the sacred sources of Sufism in the Qur an and the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad; meditation on the names of God (dhikr); prayer and fasting; the Sufi orders; and poetry, music, and dance. The author also examines the relationship between Islamic mysticism and the larger Islamic context, including the problematic encounters that Sufism has with both fundamentalism and secular modernism, and discusses the appropriation of Sufism by non-Muslims and the development of Sufi traditions in the West."

Reviews

"Ernst gives us one of the most complete and accessible guides to Sufism available."Publishers Weekly

"Ernst succeeds admirably in completing our understanding of Sufism. He covers its beginnings, its basic philosophies, and its place in Islam, keeping the discussion at a basic level so that anyone can read and understand his work. Recommended for all libraries."Library Journal

"Displays a clarity and an intellectual rigor that elucidates the many mysteries of the Sufi traditionstaking the reader on a serene journey through the fragrantly spiritual gardens which permeate the Sufi tradition."Parabola

"If you were to read only one book on Sufism, this would be the leading candidate."Richard Smoley and Jay Kinney, authors of Hidden Wisdom: A Guide to the Western Inner Traditions

"Not only a welcome introduction to the key tenets of Sufismit also offers an impartial perspective on the important question of how Sufism relates to Islam and the broad sociopolitical realities of our time."Kabir Helminski, author of The Knowing Heart: A Sufi Path of Transformation

Author Bio

"Carl W. Ernst, Ph.D., is professor and chair of the Department of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. A specialist in Islamic mysticism, he has spent research tours in Pakistan, India, and Turkey. He is also the author of Words and Ecstasy in Sufism and the translator of The Unveiling of Secrets- Diary of a Sufi Master by Ruzbihan Baqli."