Introduction to Sufism: The Inner Path of Islam

Why is Sufism so compelling to both spiritual seekers and scholars? This, the first book in English from an authority on Sufism, Éric Geoffroy, introduces Sufism from many angles and from its origins up to the present day. Geoffroy sees Sufism as a unique lens through which we can view the spirituality that lies behind the forms of Islam. This book covers the history of Sufism from its earliest days up until our own times, touching on the many significant people, practices, ideas, and controversies that have shaped it. It also highlights Sufism's universal aspects, which are a powerful antidote to various fundamentalisms. Geoffroy's special treatment of the subject balances the voices of long ago (e.g. Ibn 'Arabi, Rumi, Hallaj, and Ghazzali) with many contemporary voices to cover a remarkable scope of topics essential to a full understanding of authentic Sufism.

This book features:

A comprehensive introduction to the movements and figures of historical Sufism

A broad survey of Sufism's origins, doctrines, practices, personalities, and terminology

2 maps of important places in medieval Sufism

A glossary and index of technical terms and an index of proper names

Select bibliographies for further reading