Description
Book SynopsisA major work of mystical literature, this account focuses on 14 visions in the form of dramatic conversations with the divine, interspersed with dazzling visionary episodes regarding the nature of existence, humans' relationship with reality, and the way to achieve true happiness. The introduction presents a resume of Ibn 'Arabi's life and examines in detail the style and symbolism of the contemplations. Presented for the first time in English, this work is a superb example of Ibn 'Arabi's inimitable style and deep perception.
Table of ContentsIntroduction: spiritual journey - "Rise beyond and you will discover"; Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi; this edition; the style and symbolism ofthe contemplations; the Arabic language. Contemplations: translation and notes; from Ibn 'Arabi's preface. 1 Contemplation of the light of existence (wujud) as the star of direct vision ('iyan) rises; 2 contemplation of the light of taking (akhdh) as the star of affirmation (iqrar) rises; 3 contemplation of the light of the veils (sutur) as the star of strong backing (ta'yid) rises; 4 contemplation of the light of intuition (shur'ur) as the star of transcendence (tanzih) rises; 5 contemplation of the light of silence (samt) as the star of negation (salb) rises 6 contemplation of the light of elevation (matla') as the star of unveiling (kashf) rises; 7 contemplation of the light of the leg (saq) as the star of unveiling (kashf) rises 8 contemplation of the light of the rock (sakhra) as the star of the sea (bahr) rises 9 contemplation of the light of the rivers (al-anhar) as the star of degrees (rutab) rises 10 contemplation of the light of perplexity (hayra) as the star of non-existence ('adam) rises; 11 contemplation of the light of divinity (uluhiyya) as the str of Lam-Alif rises; 12 contemplation of the light of uniqueness (ahadiyya) as the star of servanthood ('ubudiyya) rises; 13 contemplation of the light of the support ('amd) as the star of singularity (fardaniyya) rises 14 contemplation of the light of argument (hijaj)as the star of justice ('adl) rises. Appendices: the manuscripts used in the edition of the text; Ibn 'Arabi's preface; Ibn 'Arabi's epilogue; correspondences in contemplation 3.
