Poetry and Spiritual Insights
Editors: Bilal Orfali , Ramzi Baalbaki, Francesco Chiabotti
Language: English and Arabic
Subject: Arabic and Islamic Texts and Studies
Publication: 2025
Number of Pages: 405
Book Dimensions: 17 x 24 cm
Cover Type: Hardcover
Shipping Weight: 1.5 kg
ISBN: 978-614-492-021-3
Kitāb al-Shawāhid wa-l-amthāl written by Abū Naṣr al‑Qushayrī (d. 514/1120) represents a pivotal work in the intellectual and spiritual legacy of Sufism, particularly in its integration of poetic discourse. This manuscript, specifically Ayasofya 4128, serves as a tangible testament to the rich heritage of the Qushayrī family, blending spiritual teachings with literary elegance. It offers profound insights into the pedagogical methods of Sufi masters, using poetry not only as a didactic tool but also as a means to express the ineffable aspects of mystical experience. The interplay between prose and poetry in this work highlights the unique approach of the Qushayrī tradition in embedding spiritual wisdom within poetic narratives, making it a significant contribution to the study of Sufi literature and Islamic heritage.
This volume explores the life and contributions of Abū Naṣr al‑Qushayrī, meticulously emphasizing his role in preserving and expanding his father Abū l‑Qāsim al‑Qushayrī’s spiritual teachings. Through a detailed examination of the content and structure of the original manuscript, the editors illuminate the intricate relationship between Sufi doctrines and their poetic expressions.
The critical introduction provides context, analyzing the manuscript’s themes, its historical significance, and its place within the broader spectrum of Islamic studies. This scholarly work not only enriches our understanding of early Sufi thought but also underscores the enduring influence of the Qushayrī family in the development of Islamic spirituality and literature.
