SUFISM, THE HEART OF ISLAM

Understanding Sufism, the mystic heart of Islam. Most Westerners are aware of Sufism through its stars, Rumi, Rabi'a and Sheikh Abil-Kheir, as Sufism is distinguished by the beauty of its prayers, songs and poetry. This book attempts to round out the image of Sufism through an explanation of traditions, including * the master-disciple relationship * the Sufi view of the Five Pillars of Islam * prayers * pilgrimage * declaration of faith * the path of loving God * the love between man and woman * the inner life * the nature of Divine Time Presented with simplicity, yet with depth, this book exemplifies the authentic Sufi spiritual experience--a path based on forgiveness, generosity, love and peace, a disciplined path that seeks to unite humankind in the universality of religious truths.