As Through a Veil: Mystical Poetry in Islam (American Lectures on the History of Religions)

Description

A history of mystical Islamic poetry, not only in Arabic and Persian, but also in the popular folk traditions of regional vernacular languages, including a chapter on Rumi and Sufi poetry. This collection of five lectures by an eminent Islamic scholar covers religious poetry in Arabic, the development of Persian mystical poetry, the life and work of Rumi, folk poetry, and poetry in honar of the prophet. "A welcome addition to the history of literature as much as of religion. . . . Knowledge of works on religion.in a variety of non-lslamic languages is combined with that of Sufism to make (Sehimmel's] book an introduction to Sufism as well as to its remarkable literature." -The Times Literary Supplement "It not only shows a sensitive awareness of how literature work but is also a work of scholarship which transmits a kind of passion .... An essential reference in its multiple fields of study." -Middle East Journal "As Through a Veil, like other woi-ks by Schimmel, exudes her love and devotion to Sufism, and her enthusiasm is almost inspirational. ... A good introduction to Islamic mysticism." -The Joumal of Religion Annemarie Schimmel is Professor oflndo-Muslim Studies at Harvard University. Her previous books include Calligraphy and Islamic Culture. Lectures on the History of Religions Sponsored by the American Council of Learned Societies As Through A Veil_Mystical Poetry in Islam--Annemarie Schimmel (2001)