Wisdom Crystallized

Although there are a number of excellent English-language works on Sufi metaphysics, the level of training typically needed in order to understand them is a bit beyond a basic acquaintance with the topic. And this is perhaps because the difficulties in presenting Sufi metaphysics are inherent to the method in which it is typically presented, namely straight-forward prose writing. But why must Sufi metaphysics only be presented in prose form? Those who have been exposed to traditional Islamic teaching-texts know just how effective non-prose methods of instruction can be. Chief amongst these of course is poetry, which has historically been extensively employed in languages such as Arabic and Persian for pedagogical purposes. 

Following this time-honored practice, this series of lectures will attempt to present Sufi metaphysics in the form of an English-language poem and a commentary upon this poem. As one author has said so rightly, Sufi metaphysics is a perfect blend of “the ecstasy of spiritual union” and “the rigor of logic.” Presenting Sufi metaphysics in versified form can therefore give seekers a creative window into a rather complicated topic, while also serving as a teaching guide for those who wish to employ its tenets in their own existential quests and projects of self-discovery. 

Topics and Themes Covered include:

• oneness of being and consciousness

• the union of love, lover, and beloved

• time and Eternity

• illumination

• poetry and its relationship to thought

• training the mind and soul

• cultivating Divine remembrance

• self-discovery and Self-discovery