SUFISM: A SHORT INTRODUCTION4

SUFISM: A SHORT INTRODUCTION William C. Chittick The Sufi tradition commonly associated with the Whirling Dervishes and the profoundly beautiful poetry of the great mystic, is introduced here in a comprehensive and authoritative new guide. William C. Chittick, the leading scholar in this field, offers a compelling insight into the origins, context, and key themes of this fascinating aspect of Islam. After a general overview of the Sufi tradition, he draws upon the words of some of the greatest Sufi writers among them— Ibn ‘Arabi, Baha Walad and Rarni himself— to give a fresh and revealing perspective on the teachings and beliefs of Sufism and its proponents. Areas covered include: • The history and growth of Sufism, and its relationship to Islam. • Elucidation of the major themes of the Sufi worldview— Concept of God, Concept of Man, Sufi Cosmology etc. • The belief, practice and philosophy of Sufism as seen through the eyes of several major figures. • Sufism in the modern world. • The beautiful and captivating qualities of Sufi writings with many examples. • The mystical and spiritual properties of music and dance. This informed and sympathetic book will be appreciated by anyone interested in Sufism, from those who know nothing about it to students, scholars and experts alike