Mystics and Saints of Islam

"Mystics and Saints of Islam" by Claud Field is a collection of sketches and translations that explore the lives of influential figures in Islamic mysticism, known as Sufism, written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the teachings and experiences of several mystics, emphasizing their spiritual journeys and the concepts of divine love and devotion that underpin Sufi philosophy. Each chapter presents a distinct figure, illustrating how their lives contributed to the understanding and practice of mysticism within the Islamic tradition. The opening of the book provides a comprehensive introduction to Sufism as an intrinsic element of Islam. It argues against the perception that Islamic mysticism is an alien import, emphasizing its roots in the Qur'an. The text discusses the early ascetic practices that evolved into the pantheistic sentiments found in later Sufi thought. Notably, it introduces early figures such as Hellaj, who notably professed the principle of self-annihilation in the divine, and hints at the tensions between orthodox Islam and mystical interpretations. The chapter sets the stage for a deeper exploration of individual mystics, analyzing how their beliefs and practices reflect an ongoing dialogue between devotion, fear of God, and the pursuit of spiritual truth.