The Essence of Sufism - by John Baldock Paperback

Book Synopsis

A soulful introduction to Sufi mysticism for spiritual readers, blending ancient teaching tales with timeless wisdom for the heart.

The Sufis have been using carefully constructed stories for teaching purposes for thousands of years. Though on the surface these often appear to be little more than fairy or folk tales, the Sufis hold that they enshrine - in their characters, plots and imagery - patterns and relationships that nurture a part of the mind not reachable in more conventional ways, thus increasing our understanding, flexibility and breadth of vision. Familiarization with this body of material can eventually provide answers to questions about our origins and our destiny.

In this book John Baldock explores the rich body of literature the Sufis have produced to guide spiritual travelers. While explaining the significant teachings and emphasizing their significance for us, he sheds a timely light on the Sufis' fascinating perception of life, revealing it to be a process of the heart and not of the head, and offers intriguing pathways to further study and reflection.

About the Author

Having initially trained as a painter and art teacher, John Baldock spent several years in France, during which time he studied the history of art at the École du Louvre in Paris. An interest in the symbolism of medieval religious art led to a curiosity about sacred art as an expression of an underlying spiritual dimension. On his return to England John taught art history, eventually leaving teaching to complete a book exploring the spiritual aspect of religious symbolism. His experience as a freelance editor and editorial consultant for a mind, body and spirit publisher has given John the opportunity to pursue his interest in the spiritual core of Judaeo-Christian-Islamic teachings. He has given talks throughout Europe and the USA on this and related subjects.