This unique book approaches Sufism (Islamic mysticism) through the lens that Sufi authors have provided, through instructive stories, through the poetry of ʿAṭṭār, Saʿdī, Rūmī, Ḥāfiẓ and many others, and through the manuals of Sufi instruction and commentary. It is thematically structured, around subjects ranging from asceticism to the ethics of love, the valuation of women and allegorical journeys such as the Conference of the Birds. Sufis perceive the universe as a living being, showing respect to animals, their living environment. For mystics, animals, oceans, planets, etc. all speak, teaching humankind how love hold the universe together, and how each creation has a function in the creation. Another favourite theme is the Prophet Muhammad’s Ascension (mi’rāj) to the divine Presence, which is explained in connection with the doctrine of perfect human being. In addition, the book offers a fresh analytical overview of women, gender, and sexuality in Islamic mysticism, foregrounding women mystics’ contributions to spirituality. Topics such as music and dance, often exemplified by Whirling Dervishes, are analysed through poetic texts in their intellectual contexts. The complex relationship between Satan and God is discussed through seminal primary sources, explaining the position of Satan in God’s creation. Lastly, the book shows how mysticism has remained a living tradition, highlighting how mystical themes are applied in modern politics.
