The Alchemy of Human Happiness

by Stephen Hirtenstein, Ibn ʿArabi

The quest for happiness and fulfilment lies at the very heart of all human life, and in the teaching of one of the world's greatest mystical writers, Ibn 'Arabi, true happiness consists in the vision of One Reality underlying all manifestation. This is a goal within the potential of every person. In this first English translation of a core chapter from the famous Meccan Illuminations (al-Futuhat al-Makkiyya), Ibn 'Arabi comprehensively summarises all his major teachings on human perfectibility and true happiness. Using the imagery of alchemy and ascension, he gives the reader a unique insight into the spiritual journey by contrasting two ways of acquiring the rational and the mystical. With an introduction to Islamic alchemy, the Hermetic tradition and the mysterious elixir, this book is an essential text for anyone interested in Sufism, Islamic spirituality or medieval alchemy.

Genres: Islam, Philosophy

212 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 17, 2019

Reviews

[Marwa Chawich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not one to be dramatic and be like oh my God this changed my life, but this book single-handedly altered my brain chemistry. This book is incredible journey between thought and emotion and you need to read this book. I don’t know what else to say other than the fact that you need to read this book.

[muaad the poet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I advise listening to some podcasts by the author before reading this book otherwise you’ll be confused. I’m giving it 4 stars for historical purposes not that I agree with the author on his theological views. I give it 4 stars because the books has given me a direct window into the mind of Ibn Arabi who’s from Andalusia so many centuries ago and it’s interesting to see his way of thinking as a fellow human being.

The book did give me one benefit. By realising that my actions aren’t all my own then in a way I have forgiven myself for my decisions that I wasn’t happy about. It was a great relief and in a way this is a very happy book.

[Justin Covey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Breaks down about 10% very poetical spiritual thoughts that I dug, 20% outdated scientific views I found interesting, about 30% stuff I did not understand in the slightest and 50% straight up boring.

Not bad.