Beshara and Ibn 'Arabi: A Movement of Sufi Spirituality in the Modern World : Book Review

Beshara and Ibn 'Arabi: A Movement of Sufi Spirituality in the Modern World : Book Review

In "Beshara and Ibn 'Arabi: A Movement of Sufi Spirituality in the Modern World" by Suha Taji-Farouki, readers are treated to a captivating exploration of the Beshara School and its founder, Ian Dallas, within the context of the teachings of the renowned Sufi scholar Ibn 'Arabi. Taji-Farouki delves deeply into the philosophical and spiritual concepts that underpin the Beshara School, while also analyzing its evolution in the modern world.

One aspect that truly stands out in this book is the author's meticulous examination of the core teachings of Ibn 'Arabi and how they have been interpreted and integrated by Dallas and the Beshara School. Taji-Farouki offers valuable insights into the school's spiritual concepts and practices, which have the potential to transform the lives of individuals seeking a greater understanding of themselves and the world they inhabit.

What sets this book apart is its accessibility. Taji-Farouki's writing style is engaging and intelligible, allowing complex philosophical ideas to become more approachable for readers. By expertly weaving together historical narratives, personal anecdotes, and scholarly analysis, the author creates a well-rounded and compelling narrative that not only informs but also inspires. The depth of Taji-Farouki's understanding of the subject matter is apparent throughout the book, lending it an air of authenticity and credibility.

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Exploring the Philosophy of Beshara and Ibn Arabi

Moreover, the author takes the time to thoroughly explore the historical background of the Beshara School, providing a comprehensive account of its origins and influences. She emphasizes the significance of Ibn 'Arabi's teachings and their profound impact on the development of this spiritual movement. The book effectively demonstrates how the Beshara School incorporates Ibn 'Arabi's teachings into its unique approach to Sufism, making it relevant and accessible to a contemporary audience.

Overall, "Beshara and Ibn 'Arabi" offers a captivating journey into the realm of Sufi spirituality, Islamic philosophy, and the fusion of traditional wisdom with modern thought. Taji-Farouki's exceptional research and insightful analysis make this book an invaluable resource for scholars, practitioners, and general readers alike. It sheds new light on the transformative spiritual journey that the Beshara School offers through the wisdom of Ibn 'Arabi.

What are readers saying?

The book "Beshara and Ibn 'Arabi: A Movement of Sufi Spirituality in the Modern World" by Suha Taji-Farouki has received a mixture of reviews from readers. The book delves into the teachings of Ibn 'Arabi, a renowned 13th-century Muslim mystic, and its impact on the contemporary spiritual movement known as the Beshara School.

Some readers lauded Taji-Farouki's extensive research and insightful analysis of Ibn 'Arabi's works. They found the book to be a valuable resource for comprehending the intricate ideas put forth by this influential Sufi philosopher. The author's explanations were regarded as clear and accessible, which made it easier for readers to grasp these complex concepts.

However, a significant number of reviewers expressed disappointment with the book's lack of cohesion and clarity. They felt that Taji-Farouki's writing style was overly academic and dense, making it challenging to engage with the material. Some readers noted that the book frequently went off on tangents, losing focus on the main subject matter.

Another common critique revolved around the repetitive nature of the content. Some readers felt that the same ideas and concepts were reiterated throughout the book, leading to redundancy and disrupting the flow. This repetition made the reading experience tedious and hindered their understanding of Ibn 'Arabi's philosophy.

Opinions were also divided regarding the author's bias towards the Beshara School. While some readers appreciated Taji-Farouki's sympathetic approach and personal insights into the movement, others felt that it overshadowed the necessary objectivity and scholarly analysis required for a comprehensive exploration of Ibn 'Arabi's teachings.

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