Sufism formed one of the cultures of resistance which has existed in the social fabric of Persia since antiquity. Such resistance continues to manifest itself today with many looking to Sufism as a model of cooperation between East and West, between traditional and modern. 'Sufism in the Secret History of Persia' explores the place of Sufi mysticism in Iran's intellectual and spiritual consciousness through traditional and contemporary Sufi thinkers and writers. Sufism in the Secret History of Persia examines the current of spirituality which extends from the old Iranian worship of Mithra to modern Islam. This current always contains elements of gnosis and inner knowing, but has often provided impetus for socio-political resistance. The study describes how these persisting pre-Islamic cultural and socio-religious elements have secretly challenged Muslim orthodoxies and continue to shape the nature and orientation of contemporary Sufism.

About the Author

Milad Milani is a Senior Lecturer in religious studies at Western Sydney University, Australia.

Reviews

This book shows the vital importance of Iran in the formation of Islamic culture. It was Central Asian Iranians who changed Islam from an Arab religion into a world universal faith. And it was Iran which introduced Sufism into Islam, shaping the gnostic character of the religion. Sufism in the Secret History of Persia [in italics] illuminates Iranian Islamic civilisation and reveals the influence of Zoroastrianism and Mithraism on Sufi beliefs.

Richard N. Frye, Harvard University, USA

Overall, this book makes an important contribution to the academic literature on the aspect of Sufism in Persian history. It provides much food for thought, offers new thinking on old issues in research, sometimes philosophical in nature, and challenges previous academic views. Sufism in the Secret History of Persia is indispensable for anyone who takes an interest in this field and immensely useful for anyone who wishes better to understand the mysticism of Persia.

Haggai Mazuz, Annemarie Schimmel Kolleg, Bonn

Book Information
ISBN 9781032179797
Author Milad Milani
Format Paperback
Page Count 256
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 371g