Imam 'Ali

Imam 'Ali

Author: Reza Shah-Kazemi

Publisher: I.I.S. Occasional Papers

Published: 2022-03-30

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781784539368

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'Ali ibn Abi Talib is unparalleled in Islam. He was the Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, the first Shi'i Imam and the fourth of the Rashidun Caliphs. Sunni and Shi'i Muslims alike hold 'Ali in the highest regard owing to his status as a spiritual teacher and his strength as a warrior. According to the mystical tradition of Islam, 'Ali is the embodiment of 'the perfect human being' (al-insan al-kamil). Reza Shah-Kazemi here draws on the insights of the Sufi masters Ibn 'Arabi and Rumi to look beyond the biographical details of 'Ali's life to reflect on the spiritual significance of his actions and teachings. In the spirit of ta'wil or esoteric interpretation, the author identifies how 'Ali's inner spiritual principles can be regarded as transcending the boundaries of time, space, religion and culture. For Shah-Kazemi, it is this mystical interpretation of 'Ali that invites a new, much deeper understanding of his personality and contemporary relevance, outside the confines of history. The book offers vivid examples of 'Ali's conduct and persona--on the battlefield, from the pulpit of the mosque, and in his private teachings to the mystics--exploring the ways in which his actions embodied his principles. An accessible and concise guide, this book is relevant to all those with an interest in the life of 'Ali, Islamic spirituality, religious practice, and the philosophy of religion.


Book Synopsis Imam 'Ali by : Reza Shah-Kazemi

Download or read book Imam 'Ali written by Reza Shah-Kazemi and published by I.I.S. Occasional Papers. This book was released on 2022-03-30 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: 'Ali ibn Abi Talib is unparalleled in Islam. He was the Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, the first Shi'i Imam and the fourth of the Rashidun Caliphs. Sunni and Shi'i Muslims alike hold 'Ali in the highest regard owing to his status as a spiritual teacher and his strength as a warrior. According to the mystical tradition of Islam, 'Ali is the embodiment of 'the perfect human being' (al-insan al-kamil). Reza Shah-Kazemi here draws on the insights of the Sufi masters Ibn 'Arabi and Rumi to look beyond the biographical details of 'Ali's life to reflect on the spiritual significance of his actions and teachings. In the spirit of ta'wil or esoteric interpretation, the author identifies how 'Ali's inner spiritual principles can be regarded as transcending the boundaries of time, space, religion and culture. For Shah-Kazemi, it is this mystical interpretation of 'Ali that invites a new, much deeper understanding of his personality and contemporary relevance, outside the confines of history. The book offers vivid examples of 'Ali's conduct and persona--on the battlefield, from the pulpit of the mosque, and in his private teachings to the mystics--exploring the ways in which his actions embodied his principles. An accessible and concise guide, this book is relevant to all those with an interest in the life of 'Ali, Islamic spirituality, religious practice, and the philosophy of religion.

Imam 'Ali From Concise History to Timeless Mystery

Imam 'Ali From Concise History to Timeless Mystery

Author: Reza Shah-Kazemi

Publisher:

Published: 2019-06-03

Total Pages: 194

ISBN-13: 9781908092182

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The life of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, fourth caliph of early Islam and fountainhead of Shi'ite and Sufi lineages, 'is both inspirational and controversial: intrinsically inspirational and extrinsically controversial.' These words set the tone for what is an detailed and penetrating view of the figure of Imam 'Ali on various planes, the spiritual and ethical, the individual, the political and social. The author draws a unique portrait in which the powerful spiritual undercurrents of early Islamic history can be discerned at play, and where the sanctified heart of the Imam is revealed as a fulcrum of the harmony between the most diverse and even divergent tendencies. These spiritual reflections on the life and thought of Imam 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, bring to life what is essential and inspirational in his biography. 'Ali is viewed as the paragon of statesmanship, chivalry and mysticism, a man of action and contemplation, the greatest hero of his age as well as its wisest sage. The interplay between his dramatic outward story and his profound inner story heralds the triumph of the human spirit over the difficulties, tragedies and absurdities which are inevitable in 'the life of this world.' This exceptional book may be too Shia for some Sunnis, and too Sunni for some Shia, and it may be too political for some, and too spiritual for others, and so its main value lies precisely in a higher perspective where it reveals harmony, in a keen vision of the forces of tawhid, the drive to union, alive at the centre of historical events as in human hearts. It will have a cathartic effect upon the many, Sunnis and Shia alike, who wish to see 'Ali as a fountainhead of unity in Islam, not as a source of division. It makes accessible to both Muslims and non-Muslims the treasures of loving mercy flowing from 'Ali, a global paragon of initiatic wisdom.


Book Synopsis Imam 'Ali From Concise History to Timeless Mystery by : Reza Shah-Kazemi

Download or read book Imam 'Ali From Concise History to Timeless Mystery written by Reza Shah-Kazemi and published by . This book was released on 2019-06-03 with total page 194 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The life of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, fourth caliph of early Islam and fountainhead of Shi'ite and Sufi lineages, 'is both inspirational and controversial: intrinsically inspirational and extrinsically controversial.' These words set the tone for what is an detailed and penetrating view of the figure of Imam 'Ali on various planes, the spiritual and ethical, the individual, the political and social. The author draws a unique portrait in which the powerful spiritual undercurrents of early Islamic history can be discerned at play, and where the sanctified heart of the Imam is revealed as a fulcrum of the harmony between the most diverse and even divergent tendencies. These spiritual reflections on the life and thought of Imam 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, bring to life what is essential and inspirational in his biography. 'Ali is viewed as the paragon of statesmanship, chivalry and mysticism, a man of action and contemplation, the greatest hero of his age as well as its wisest sage. The interplay between his dramatic outward story and his profound inner story heralds the triumph of the human spirit over the difficulties, tragedies and absurdities which are inevitable in 'the life of this world.' This exceptional book may be too Shia for some Sunnis, and too Sunni for some Shia, and it may be too political for some, and too spiritual for others, and so its main value lies precisely in a higher perspective where it reveals harmony, in a keen vision of the forces of tawhid, the drive to union, alive at the centre of historical events as in human hearts. It will have a cathartic effect upon the many, Sunnis and Shia alike, who wish to see 'Ali as a fountainhead of unity in Islam, not as a source of division. It makes accessible to both Muslims and non-Muslims the treasures of loving mercy flowing from 'Ali, a global paragon of initiatic wisdom.

The Prophet's Heir

The Prophet's Heir

Author: Hassan Abbas

Publisher: Yale University Press

Published: 2021-02-23

Total Pages: 265

ISBN-13: 0300252056

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The life and legacy of one of Mohammad’s closest confidants and Islam’s patron saint: Ali ibn Abi Talib Ali ibn Abi Talib is arguably the single most important spiritual and intellectual authority in Islam after prophet Mohammad. Through his teachings and leadership as fourth caliph, Ali nourished Islam. But Muslims are divided on whether he was supposed to be Mohammad’s political successor—and he continues to be a polarizing figure in Islamic history. Hassan Abbas provides a nuanced, compelling portrait of this towering yet divisive figure and the origins of sectarian division within Islam. Abbas reveals how, after Mohammad, Ali assumed the spiritual mantle of Islam to spearhead the movement that the prophet had led. While Ali’s teachings about wisdom, justice, and selflessness continue to be cherished by both Shia and Sunni Muslims, his pluralist ideas have been buried under sectarian agendas and power politics. Today, Abbas argues, Ali’s legacy and message stands against that of ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Taliban.


Book Synopsis The Prophet's Heir by : Hassan Abbas

Download or read book The Prophet's Heir written by Hassan Abbas and published by Yale University Press. This book was released on 2021-02-23 with total page 265 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The life and legacy of one of Mohammad’s closest confidants and Islam’s patron saint: Ali ibn Abi Talib Ali ibn Abi Talib is arguably the single most important spiritual and intellectual authority in Islam after prophet Mohammad. Through his teachings and leadership as fourth caliph, Ali nourished Islam. But Muslims are divided on whether he was supposed to be Mohammad’s political successor—and he continues to be a polarizing figure in Islamic history. Hassan Abbas provides a nuanced, compelling portrait of this towering yet divisive figure and the origins of sectarian division within Islam. Abbas reveals how, after Mohammad, Ali assumed the spiritual mantle of Islam to spearhead the movement that the prophet had led. While Ali’s teachings about wisdom, justice, and selflessness continue to be cherished by both Shia and Sunni Muslims, his pluralist ideas have been buried under sectarian agendas and power politics. Today, Abbas argues, Ali’s legacy and message stands against that of ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Taliban.

Common Ground Between Islam and Buddhism

Common Ground Between Islam and Buddhism

Author: Reza Shah-Kazemi

Publisher:

Published: 2010

Total Pages: 172

ISBN-13:

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"[Common Ground is] ... an earnest attempt to help Muslims to see Buddhism as a true religion, and Buddhists to see Islam as an authentic Dharma."--Professor Mohammad Hashim Kamali (from his Foreword) --Book Jacket.


Book Synopsis Common Ground Between Islam and Buddhism by : Reza Shah-Kazemi

Download or read book Common Ground Between Islam and Buddhism written by Reza Shah-Kazemi and published by . This book was released on 2010 with total page 172 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "[Common Ground is] ... an earnest attempt to help Muslims to see Buddhism as a true religion, and Buddhists to see Islam as an authentic Dharma."--Professor Mohammad Hashim Kamali (from his Foreword) --Book Jacket.

Ali.The Well-Guarded Secret: Figures of the First Master in Shi‘i Spirituality

Ali.The Well-Guarded Secret: Figures of the First Master in Shi‘i Spirituality

Author: Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi

Publisher: BRILL

Published: 2022-11-07

Total Pages: 399

ISBN-13: 9004522433

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‘Alī, son of Abī Ṭālib, Muhammad’s son-in-law and cousin, is the only Companion of the Prophet who has remained to this day the object of fervent devotion of hundreds of millions of followers in the lands of Islam, especially in the East. Based on a detailed analysis of several categories of sources, this book demonstrates that Shi‘ism is the religion of the Imam, of the Master of Wisdom, just like Christianity is that of Christ, and that ‘Alī is the first Master and Imam par excellence. Shi‘ism can therefore be defined, in its most specific religious aspects, as the absolute faith in ‘Alī: the divine Man, the most perfect manifestation of God’s attributes, simultaneously spiritual refuge, model and horizon. With contributions by Orkhan Mir-Kasimov & Mathieu Terrier Translated from French by Francisco José Luis & Anthony Gledhill


Book Synopsis Ali.The Well-Guarded Secret: Figures of the First Master in Shi‘i Spirituality by : Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi

Download or read book Ali.The Well-Guarded Secret: Figures of the First Master in Shi‘i Spirituality written by Mohammad Ali Amir-Moezzi and published by BRILL. This book was released on 2022-11-07 with total page 399 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: ‘Alī, son of Abī Ṭālib, Muhammad’s son-in-law and cousin, is the only Companion of the Prophet who has remained to this day the object of fervent devotion of hundreds of millions of followers in the lands of Islam, especially in the East. Based on a detailed analysis of several categories of sources, this book demonstrates that Shi‘ism is the religion of the Imam, of the Master of Wisdom, just like Christianity is that of Christ, and that ‘Alī is the first Master and Imam par excellence. Shi‘ism can therefore be defined, in its most specific religious aspects, as the absolute faith in ‘Alī: the divine Man, the most perfect manifestation of God’s attributes, simultaneously spiritual refuge, model and horizon. With contributions by Orkhan Mir-Kasimov & Mathieu Terrier Translated from French by Francisco José Luis & Anthony Gledhill

Rumi - Past and Present, East and West

Rumi - Past and Present, East and West

Author: Franklin D. Lewis

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

Published: 2014-10-01

Total Pages: 712

ISBN-13: 1780747373

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The definitive study of the world's bestselling poet Drawing on a vast array of sources, from writings of the poet himself to the latest scholarly literature, this new anniversary edition of the award-winning work examines the background, the legacy, and the continuing significance of Jalâl al-Din Rumi, today’s bestselling poet in the United States. With new translations of over fifty of Rumi’s poems and including never before seen prose, this landmark study celebrates the astounding appeal of Rumi, still as strong as ever, 800 years after his birth.


Book Synopsis Rumi - Past and Present, East and West by : Franklin D. Lewis

Download or read book Rumi - Past and Present, East and West written by Franklin D. Lewis and published by Simon and Schuster. This book was released on 2014-10-01 with total page 712 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The definitive study of the world's bestselling poet Drawing on a vast array of sources, from writings of the poet himself to the latest scholarly literature, this new anniversary edition of the award-winning work examines the background, the legacy, and the continuing significance of Jalâl al-Din Rumi, today’s bestselling poet in the United States. With new translations of over fifty of Rumi’s poems and including never before seen prose, this landmark study celebrates the astounding appeal of Rumi, still as strong as ever, 800 years after his birth.

In Search of the Divine

In Search of the Divine

Author: Rana Safvi

Publisher: Hachette India

Published: 2022-09-21

Total Pages: 395

ISBN-13: 9393701164

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Sufism, called the mystical dimension of Islam, is known for its inclusive nature, as well as its ethics of love and compassion, its devotional music, art and architecture. In India's syncretic culture, Sufism developed a distinct character, and harmoniously embraced the Bhakti traditions of North India. Rana Safvi's In Search of the Divine delves into the fascinating roots of Sufism, with its emphasis on ihsan, iman and akhlaq, and the impact it continues to have on people from all communities. Safvi relies not only on textual sources but also on her own visits to dargahs across the country, and the conversations she has with devotees and pirs alike. The book evokes in vivid detail the sacred atmosphere she encounters - the reverent crowds, the strains of qawwali and the fragrance of incense, as well as highlights the undeniable yet often forgotten contributions of women in Sufism. The resulting text is at once modern and a tribute to the rich and textured past. Weaving together fact and popular legend, ancient histories and living tradition, this unique treatise examines core Sufi beliefs and uncovers why they might offer hope for the future.


Book Synopsis In Search of the Divine by : Rana Safvi

Download or read book In Search of the Divine written by Rana Safvi and published by Hachette India. This book was released on 2022-09-21 with total page 395 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Sufism, called the mystical dimension of Islam, is known for its inclusive nature, as well as its ethics of love and compassion, its devotional music, art and architecture. In India's syncretic culture, Sufism developed a distinct character, and harmoniously embraced the Bhakti traditions of North India. Rana Safvi's In Search of the Divine delves into the fascinating roots of Sufism, with its emphasis on ihsan, iman and akhlaq, and the impact it continues to have on people from all communities. Safvi relies not only on textual sources but also on her own visits to dargahs across the country, and the conversations she has with devotees and pirs alike. The book evokes in vivid detail the sacred atmosphere she encounters - the reverent crowds, the strains of qawwali and the fragrance of incense, as well as highlights the undeniable yet often forgotten contributions of women in Sufism. The resulting text is at once modern and a tribute to the rich and textured past. Weaving together fact and popular legend, ancient histories and living tradition, this unique treatise examines core Sufi beliefs and uncovers why they might offer hope for the future.

The Sayings and Wisdom of Imam Ali

The Sayings and Wisdom of Imam Ali

Author:

Publisher:

Published: 2018-12-10

Total Pages: 188

ISBN-13: 9781928329077

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The sayings and wisdom of Imam `Ali transcend superficial differences, to reveal everlasting truths that can only serve to guide and illuminate the seeker and traveler on his or her journey through life, as clearly, constantly, and unerringly as the Pole Star.


Book Synopsis The Sayings and Wisdom of Imam Ali by :

Download or read book The Sayings and Wisdom of Imam Ali written by and published by . This book was released on 2018-12-10 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The sayings and wisdom of Imam `Ali transcend superficial differences, to reveal everlasting truths that can only serve to guide and illuminate the seeker and traveler on his or her journey through life, as clearly, constantly, and unerringly as the Pole Star.

Islam Explained

Islam Explained

Author: Ahmad Rashid Salim

Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc.

Published: 2020-11-03

Total Pages: 218

ISBN-13: 1646113241

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A revealing guide to understanding the principles of Islam With more than 1.8 billion followers worldwide, Islam is one of the world's largest religions, but it is also one that is poorly understood by many Americans. Islam Explained offers an informative overview of the faith, helping those who are new to Islam foster cultural awareness while also providing those already familiar with it the opportunity to deepen their understanding. Whether you are looking to expand your own knowledge of Islam or just better understand the practices of Muslim friends, coworkers, and neighbors, this concise and essential guide provides a solid foundation for future study and conversation. Islam Explained features: Easy-to-understand explanations—This book provides a complete overview ideal for those who are interested in Islam as a faith, a subject of study, and beyond. Historical contexts—Better understand the history of Islam, how the religion has evolved, and the ways that history has shaped the lives of Muslims. Beliefs and practices—Explore what it means to be a practicing Muslim, including the Five Pillars, laws, dress codes, and brief glimpses into how they vary between individual sects. Take yourself on a journey that will end in a better, more complete understanding of Islam.


Book Synopsis Islam Explained by : Ahmad Rashid Salim

Download or read book Islam Explained written by Ahmad Rashid Salim and published by Sourcebooks, Inc.. This book was released on 2020-11-03 with total page 218 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A revealing guide to understanding the principles of Islam With more than 1.8 billion followers worldwide, Islam is one of the world's largest religions, but it is also one that is poorly understood by many Americans. Islam Explained offers an informative overview of the faith, helping those who are new to Islam foster cultural awareness while also providing those already familiar with it the opportunity to deepen their understanding. Whether you are looking to expand your own knowledge of Islam or just better understand the practices of Muslim friends, coworkers, and neighbors, this concise and essential guide provides a solid foundation for future study and conversation. Islam Explained features: Easy-to-understand explanations—This book provides a complete overview ideal for those who are interested in Islam as a faith, a subject of study, and beyond. Historical contexts—Better understand the history of Islam, how the religion has evolved, and the ways that history has shaped the lives of Muslims. Beliefs and practices—Explore what it means to be a practicing Muslim, including the Five Pillars, laws, dress codes, and brief glimpses into how they vary between individual sects. Take yourself on a journey that will end in a better, more complete understanding of Islam.

Ali

Ali

Author: Jalal Moughania

Publisher: Mainstay Foundation

Published: 2021-04-27

Total Pages: 246

ISBN-13: 9781943393060

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This historical narrative of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, tells the tale of his timeless character that transcends history, religions, and nations. From before his birth to the final moments of his life, Ali's story renews within us the hope we all need. The lessons of his life's journey illuminate a deeper understanding of what it means to endure the darkest times, to persevere, and to rise to a purpose greater than ourselves. Embodying the definition of patience itself, Ali is the compass, the lighthouse, to guide us in navigating the world around us, and the universe within. The gateway to God's beloved Muhammad, Ali is the answer to the wandering heart and the seeker of all that is true. Ali, is 'the elixir of love'.


Book Synopsis Ali by : Jalal Moughania

Download or read book Ali written by Jalal Moughania and published by Mainstay Foundation. This book was released on 2021-04-27 with total page 246 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This historical narrative of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, tells the tale of his timeless character that transcends history, religions, and nations. From before his birth to the final moments of his life, Ali's story renews within us the hope we all need. The lessons of his life's journey illuminate a deeper understanding of what it means to endure the darkest times, to persevere, and to rise to a purpose greater than ourselves. Embodying the definition of patience itself, Ali is the compass, the lighthouse, to guide us in navigating the world around us, and the universe within. The gateway to God's beloved Muhammad, Ali is the answer to the wandering heart and the seeker of all that is true. Ali, is 'the elixir of love'.