Sufism: Heart of Islam

by Sadia Dehlvi

Drawing from an in-depth study of Muslim texts and traditions, the author articulates that Sufism is not an innovation, but the continuity of a thought process that links Muslims to their religious predecessors all the way to Prophet Muhammad. The book covers the remarkable lives of the early Sufis, their literature, and philosophies that stress on the purification of the heart. It highlights the major Sufi orders, their popularity in the subcontinent and how the teachings of Sufi Masters impacted the devotional aspect of Muslims forever. This comprehensive account spans from early Islam to the modern day concerns of militant ideologies, arguing how they pose the biggest threat to the classical understanding of the faith. It offers an insightful look at the complex relationship of Sufism with both Muslim and non-Muslim societies.

Genres: Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Nonfiction, Spirituality

310 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[aisha chapra · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was my first book about Sufism. And it led me to a whole new world. I found a calligraphic image of Bismillah and tattoed it on my back! Sadia takes you through the history of Sufism, especially in South Asia, and allows a novice to understand some of the complex depth to the Sufi Saints and the legacies they have left behind. Beautiful poetry and engaging historical information.

[Sheokhanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for those who wish to understand the pluralistic,liberal and peace loving sect within Islam which has been again and again targeted by the hardline elements in the Muslim world.

Sufis for centuries have been the bridging gap for Hinduism and Islam. They are the most tolerant and music loving people. In the book the author describes her journey and her understanding. She also narrates how great-grandfather converted into Islam. She belongs to Arora community if we take her hindu ancestor into account. She also gives an insight into how her name came to be Dehlvi or more importantly how her family's name came to be Dehlvi. It is the first book that I have read on Sufism.

[Mujib Mundewadi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book on Sufism! This quote from the book aptly summarises Sufism.

“Sufism is about refining the heart, not just performing rituals. It is about embodying the values of love, compassion, and humility—values that are at the very core of Islam.”

I loved the calligraphy found throughout the book. It's beautiful!!

[Naved · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone who wants to have a brief introduction to Sufism especially those of Delhi, Kashmir and some parts of India should read this. A very good and important book on this topic.

[Gurdeep Singh · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book is a nice read for someone needing an introduction to Islam and to Sufism in particular. It reads more like a commentary than a book but does well in what, I suppose, it set out to do. For me, it works more because of the facts rather than the prose, which seems too dry and mechanical except in some places.

[Ankur Chawla · Rating 5 out of 5]

recommended read for hardcore fanatics and people who would like to know about real islamic interpretations...