Sufism

This is an excellent overview of the Persian lineage and practice of Sufism. Presented in an easy-to-read format, Sufism not only gives a detailed account of the major practices of Sufism but also traces the development and lineage of the faith in the major centers. Sufism also contains examples of important Sufi verse, a detailed explanation of the major religious practices, a first hand description of ceremonies at a temple and a bibliography of literature related to Sufism in English and Persian (Farsi) for serious students. TOC: Foreword Islamic Sects Names Summary Key Dates, Words, People & Works In Sufism The Theory, Practices And Origins Of Sufism CHAPTER 1: GENERAL BACKGROUND History The Morshed The Salek Ablution The Khaneghah The Khergheh CHAPTER 2: SUFI THEORY AND TERMINOLOGY Literature And Practice The Forty Stages CHAPTER 3: INFLUENCES AND ORIGINS Sufism And Sophism The "Wearers Of Wool" Safa Tasawof The Origins Of Sufism Sufism and Buddhism The First Sufis CHAPTER 4: HISTORICAL CENTERS OF BAGHDAD, KHURASAN AND SHIRAZ The Center at Baghdad The Center at Khurasan The Center at Shiraz CHAPTER 5: THE PRESENT CENTERS OF KURDESTAN, KARAJ AND THE REMAINING BRANCHES OF SUFISM IN IRAN Center At Kurdestan