Spiritual Gems of Islam: Insights & Practices from the Qur’an, Hadith, Rumi & Muslim Teaching Stories to Enlighten the Heart and Mind

Rahman, one of the three Interfaith Amigos who have collaborated on two books, is a Muslim Sufi minister in Seattle, and he compiles “gems” of Islamic spirituality. He cites short verses from the Qur’an, hadith (sayings of Muhammad), and Sufi poets, especially the popular 13th-century mystic Rumi; he then offers exposition that teases out the meaning and application of the verse and concludes with short suggestions for spiritual practices. Rahman’s frame of reference is Sufism, the mystical school of Islam, so his focus is devotional. Yet he is skilled at weaving anecdotes from his everyday experiences into his discussion of Islamic teachings. Those who appreciate the poet Rumi will be able to locate their literary understanding in a religious context. And non-Muslims can learn Islam’s 99 names—attributes—of God, listed in an appendix, a short but powerful devotional and theological lesson. (May)■