An allegory of the path towards enlightenment.

“‘Twas what it was, ’tis not to be expressed. Enquire no further, but conceive the best.” -Ghazali Described in the introduction as “this romance of Hayy Ibn Yokdhan, simple and ingenuous, yet fragrant with poetry and withal fraught with deep philosophical problems the interest in which I wish to revive.” “The author of the story, Ibn Tufail, though he is generally not reckoned among the most prominent in that brilliant array of Arabian philosophers for whom Spain became the rallying-point in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, yet his name will outlive centuries. For the romance which he has given to the world is a work of everlasting beauty, of immortal freshness; one that will never grow stale in the flight of ages.” The author, Ibn Tufail, was one of the outstanding philosophers and scientists of his day, and hence many strands are woven into the fabric of the tale.

The book is a selection of the life history of Sufi saints, their teachings and thoughts. The main objective of this book is to give an opportunity of spiritual benefit and spiritual purification to those who are inclined to follow the simplicity of Sufi’s lives, their advice and teachings. it is not limited to particular faith, but persons of all faiths can be benefited by them.

Knowledge Before Action by Amina M. Steinfels discusses ritual and contemplative practices, the economic bases of Sufi institutions, and the interconnectedness between Sufi masters, the ‘ulama, and the political authorities by telling the story of Bukhari.