Sufism for Non-Sufis?: Ibn 'Ata' Allah al-Sakandari's Taj al-'Arus
"The translation is excellent, the style is accessible and engaging, and the work of Ibn Ata Allah is appealing and wise. In his introduction to the text, Jackson offers original theological reflections on the authentic essence of Sufism and why it remains valuable, if not essential, for contemporary Muslims, or even more broadly to a modern audience facing perennial challenges to humans who seek a correct relationship with the divine."--Marcia Hermansen, Professor of Theology, Loyola University Chicago"'The Bride-Groom's Crown' is not yet another exotic treatise of medieval Islamic theosophy but a truly universal manual of liberation from our wild self. It is less a book than a spiritual firework: hundreds of aphorisms enriched with amazing metaphors, leaving hearts burnt but enraptured. Sherman Jackson's annotated translation is beautiful and his introduction enlightening. An outstanding contribution to scholarship and a must-read for every lost soul."--Yahya Michot, Professor of Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations, Hartford Seminary"A very readable translation of a work from an important but understudied genre of Islamic writing. An invaluable book for undergraduate courses and non-academic readers alike."--Jamal J. Elias, Professor of Religious Studies, University of Pennsylvania