Sufism : a beginner''s guide

This book may completely change the way you see things. It is about the Sufi(Islamic) conception of God, Creation, etc and is useful for both Muslims and Non-Muslims in understanding the philosophy and rich scholarship of Sufism. The author approaches it from a very orthodox and traditional view, unlike the "New Age Sufism" that is prevalent in some circles. Also, the author is a reputable scholar who has mastered the languages of classical Sufi writers. If you are interested in Islam or Sufism and approach things with an unbiased point of view, you owe it to yourself to read this book. I borrowed it from a public library and now I plan on buying it. This book is not about politics or "why I am right, and you are wrong". Buy this book only if you are interested in learning about Sufism/Islam directly from its sources. William C. Chittick, the leading scholar in the field, offers a compelling insight into the origins, context, and key themes of this fascinating movement. After a general overview of the tradition, he draws upon the words of some of the greatest Sufi writers -- among them Ibn Arabi, Baha Walad and Rumi himself -- to give a fresh and revealing perspective on the teachings and beliefs of Sufism and its proponents. Covering everything from the history and growth of Sufism to its place in the modern world, this sympathetic book will be appreciated by anyone interested in Sufism, from complete beginners to students, scholars and experts alike What is mysticism? What does sufism mean today? William C. Chittick, the leading scholar in the field, offers a compelling insight into the origins, context, and key themes of this fascinating movement. After a general overview of the tradition, he draws upon the words of some of the greatest Sufi writers - among them Ibn Arabi, Baha Walad and Rumi himself - to give a fresh and revealing perspective on the teachings and beliefs of Sufism and its proponents. Fresh and authoritative, this sympathetic book will be appreciated by anyone interested in Sufism, from complete beginners to students, scholars and experts alike.

William C. Chittick, the leading scholar in the field, offers a compelling insight into the origins, context, and key themes of this fascinating movement. He draws upon the words of some of the greatest Sufi writers to give a fresh and revealing perspective on the teachings and beliefs of Sufism and its proponents. This fresh and authoritative book will be appreciated by anyone interested in Sufism, from complete beginners to students, scholars, and experts alike.