Sufi Symbolism: The Nurbakhsh Encyclopedia of Sufi Terminology, Vol. 7: Comtemplative Disciplines

Rating:
Summary: Universal spiritual hierarchy of Divine Grace
Review: Sufi Symbolism is an encyclopedia of 16 volumes, with all possible entries on the symbolism and mystical knowledge of the Sufi path. Each entry provides a great variety of quotations by the masters of the Path. Many of these quotations are translated for the first time in the English language.

While the entire series is primarily useful for in-depth references to the subjects discussed, this particular volume VI almost reads as a textbook. Moreover, the particular subject of this volume is very interesting.

"Titles and epithets" of the Sufi path are discussed, meaning the various categories of travelers, adherents to particular creeds, adepts, saints and prophets; in their various approaches, degrees and ranks. What appears is a whole spiritual hierarchy, forever subsisting in eternity, maintaining the spiritual order of humanity, and serving as conduits of divine grace to maintain the covenant of humanity with its Creator.

Just a few quotations:

"The Pole of the Universe (qotb) holds the balance that regulates the general flow of grace; he measures that flow according to his knowledge, which follows from his knowledge of God, which in turn arises from quiddities yet to be manifested. The outflow of the spirit of life, from most sublime to the basest existence, is in his hands. (...)" - Jorjani

"The rule of the "Universal Pole" (qotb) is constantly thus:
if one goes away, another must come."
- Shah Ni'matullah Wali

"The "substitutes" (abdal) revolve in the seven heavens of the "pole" (qotb),
and the "supports" (autad) are stationary in the four corners of the "recourse" (ghauth).
- Mozaffar `Ali Shah

This book is very worthwhile indeed to read if you are interested to have a comprehensive overview of these subjects. There is no other, comparable compendium, to my knowledge.

"Love is "devil-may-care" (la-obali), not reason;
reason only seeks that from which it may gain."
- Rumi