Practical Mysticism in Islam and Christianity

Practical Mysticism in Islam and Christianity offers a comparative study of the works of the Sufi-poet Jalal al-Din Rumi (1207-1273) and the practical teachings of the German Dominican Meister Eckhart (c1260-1327/8). Rumi has remained an influential figure in Islamic mystical discourse since the thirteenth century while also extending his impact to the Western spiritual arena. However his ideas have frequently been interpreted within the framework of other mystical philosophical or religious systems. Through its novel approach this book aims to reformulate Rumiâs practical mysticism by employing four methodological principles: a) mysticism is a coherent structure with mutual interconnection between its parts; b) the imposition of alien structures to interpret any particular mysticism damages its inward coherency; c) practical mysticism consists of two main parts namely practices and stages; and d) the proper use of comparative methodology enables a deeper understanding of each juxtaposed system. Eckhartâs speculative mysticism which differs from and enjoys similarities with the love-based mysticism of Rumi provides a mirror that highlights the special features of Rumiâs practical mysticism. Such comparison also allows a deeper comprehension of Eckhartâs practical thought. Offering a critical examination of practical mysticism this book is a valuable resource for students and scholars of Islamic studies comparative mysticism and the intellectual history of Islam. . Language: English