Frithjof Schuon: Life and Teachings

by Jean-Baptiste Aymard, Patrick Laude, Seyyed Hossein Nasr (Foreword by)

The first book in English devoted to the religious philosopher Frithjof Schuon (1907-1998) to appear since his death, this biography also provides an analysis of his work and spiritual teachings. Relying on Schuon's published works as well as unpublished correspondence and other documents, the authors highlight the originality of Schuon's life and teachings in terms of his consistent focus on esoterism, defined as the inner penetration of sacred forms and spiritual practices vis-à-vis the religio perennis, the eternal wisdom that lies at the core of all sacred paths. Schuon's life, they argue, is a quest for the inner meaning of religious experience, as is indicated by his connections to Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Native American Shamanism. Spiritual seekers from all backgrounds will appreciate this comprehensive study of this towering figure of comparative religion.

Genres: Religion

210 pages, Hardcover

First published October 14, 2004

Reviews

[Dina Kaidir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every great sage "is identified with the perspective that he actualizes and transmits, and in the face of which all outward reticence and misunderstandings, even they be traditional, are as nothing."

A fascinating and enlightening read on the experiences of one the expositors of religio perennis, his own spiritual journey. Any further comment would reduce the wonder that this reader feels. Subhana'Llah.

[Melbourne Bitter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I felt lost in the second half of the book. It seemed to be endlessly complicated with definitions half way through a chapter of the term being discussed. But then one definition of esoteric is that which is understood by a small number of people. My fault then and no fault of the author.