OverviewObjective and illuminating, this treatise, written by Sufi leader Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi, presents a fundamental analysis of spiritual practice. Underscoring the importance of silence, seclusion, hunger, and vigilance, this guide demonstrates that these activities are both physical and spiritual. Providing the necessary tools for an enlightened life, this dual-language edition incorporates the first critical edition of the Arabic text, gathered from the best-surviving manuscripts. An introduction, and translation of chapter 53 of the renowned Futuhat al-Makkiyya, are also included.
Reviews"[Ibn 'Arabi] profoundly influenced all subsequent Sufi teaching and thus stands as the most important link between the Sufis who went before him and those who came after him." —Ralph Austin, translator, Sufis of Andalusia
"The greatest mystical genius of the Arabs" —A. J. Arberry, author, Sufism
"One of Ibn 'Arabi's most accessible and widely studied works, the Hilyat al-abdal, highlights the practical foundation of spiritual discipline underlying all of his metaphysical and theological writings." —Professor James Winston Morris, Boston College
Author BiographyMuhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi was an eminent Sufi mystic and teacher in the Moorish culture of Andalusian Spain during the 12th century. Stephen Hirtenstein is the editor of the journal of the Muhyiddin Ibn ‘Arabi Society and a director of Anqa Publishing. He is the translator of Divine Sayings, the cotranslator of The Seven Days of the Heart, and the author of The Unlimited Mercifier.