The Path: Sufi Practices [Paperback]

Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 2003 | ISBN-10: 093354670X | ISBN-13: 978-0933546707

To walk the pages of Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh's book "The Path: Sufi Practices" is to be taken away from everything but the truth. In a word, this is the Sufi way. Arguably, the most comprehensive account available of Sufism in the contemporary world, The Path's subject, aim and goal is the very transmutation of the heart itself. Never less than clear and practical, each essay takes us through the stages required of the initiated disciple in order to purify the ego, become free from psychological conflicts and be cleansed of egotistical qualities. Particular light is shed on the master/disciple relationship, as Dr. Nurbakhsh writes, "The master is the Noah of the ark of the voyagers of purity and the basis of illumination and revelation for those (disciples) who are faithfully carried away by the spiritual wind." If the Sufi's aim is to reach a state of selfless, constant remembrance of God, then, the Dhikr (the repetition of one of the names of God) is the key to its attainment. Dr. Nurbakhsh's book maps out in concise terms what it is to become emptied, to let go of negative emotions and to attain to a consciousness that polishes the heart. Sufism, we discover, is a mystical path towards the Truth where one is left with no provisions except love. Included is a rare glimpse into the Sufi ritual of Sama, described here as the practice of listening with the ear of the heart to music and poetry that might best be grasped as one being in a state so deeply plunged in love that there is no taint of self left in awareness. In this way, the sincere Sufi hears the call of God. This exceptional book is as much an educational tool as it is a manual for any seeker on the path of practical spiritual inquiry.

Editorial Reviews

Language Notes

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Persian

About the Author

The author, Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh, was the Master of the Nimatullahi Sufi Order for over 55 years, prior to his death, in October 2008, at the age of 82. In addition to bringing the teachings of the Nimatullahi Sufism to the West and other parts of the world, Dr. Nurbakhsh also wrote extensively on Sufism and was responsible for the editing, publishing and translation of many classic Sufi texts that have existed previously only in manuscript form.

Product Details

• Paperback: 215 pages
• Publisher: Khaniqahi Nimatullahi Publications (KNP) (January 1, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 093354670X
• ISBN-13: 978-0933546707
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.4 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,012,575 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Priceless, July 23, 2006

By 

nobody son of nobody (Boston) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Path: Sufi Practices (Paperback)

The Path reveals the true heart of Islam and is a priceless handbook on the actual aim and method of a traditional Sufi order. Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh's work translates very well into English and offers clear and concise guidance for traveling a spiritual path. Nor frills, bells and whistles, Nurbakhsh reveals the Truth as it Is. Highly recommended!

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Path: Sufi Practices, July 30, 2010

By 

Luis rosario (ridgewood, NY United States) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Path: Sufi Practices (Paperback)

This has to be one of the best introductory book on Sufism I have read thus far. It is well constructed, furthermore explains everything in perfect detail. BRAVO! This book is highly recommended for beginners on the Sufi way.

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars wonderful book!, January 31, 2010

By 

M. Ghane (Chicago) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Path: Sufi Practices (Paperback)

This book is truly an eye opener to the connection between man and god. Wonderful words and wise insight. MUST read!