A German scholar specializing in Orientalism and Islam, she dedicated her extensive work to illuminating the world of Islam and Sufism. Her writings delved deeply into the spiritual and cultural traditions of Islam, often focusing on its mystical dimensions. Her approach combined rigorous academic inquiry with a profound understanding of her subjects. She significantly contributed to introducing Western readers to the richness of Islamic spirituality and thought.
The book, first published in 1993, offers insights and analysis on a specific subject, contributing to academic discourse in its field. As part of Routledge's esteemed catalog, it reflects the high standards of Taylor & Francis, known for publishing influential works. The content is designed to engage readers with its thorough exploration of themes relevant to its discipline, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and students.
Focusing on Islamic mystical poetry, this updated edition of Annemarie Schimmel's lectures explores the rich literary tradition that inspired Jalal al-Din Rumi's profound writings. It delves into the complexities of interpreting poetry that blends sensuality with spirituality, while also examining the influence of this literature on subsequent works. Additionally, it highlights the playful nuances of cryptic and nonsense verse, offering an insightful and passionate analysis of some of the most exquisite literature in history.
Annemarie Schimmel's historical examination of Sufism offers a comprehensive introduction to Islamic mysticism, tracing its evolution from its origins to the nineteenth century. This updated edition of a classic work presents Sufism as a significant transnational phenomenon, making it accessible to contemporary readers interested in the spiritual dimensions of Islam.
Annemarie Schimmel explores the intricate rhetoric and imagery employed by poets from Iran, Ottoman Turkey, and Muslim India. Her comprehensive introduction reveals how these artistic expressions have evolved over centuries, mirroring the shifting dynamics within the Muslim world. By examining the sophistication of these literary techniques, Schimmel highlights the enduring significance and adaptability of poetic imagery in reflecting cultural and historical transformations.
Annemarie Schimmel has written extensively on India, Islam and poetry. In this comprehensive study she presents an overview of the cultural, economic, militaristic and artistic attributes of the great Mughal Empire from 1526 to 1857.
The life of Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, is explored through his transformation from a quiet religious teacher to a figure of mystical ecstasy after meeting Shams Tabriz. This encounter ignites Rumi's prolific poetry, expressing his yearning for the Divine Beloved, symbolized by Shams. The book delves into the significance of Rumi's work, including the invention of the Melevi dervishes' whirling dance, and features translations of his most notable poems, providing insight into his profound spiritual journey.
An internationally acclaimed scholar, who has dedicated more than fifty years of her life to understanding the Islamic world. Annemarie Schimmel examines a much-misunderstood feature of Islam: the role of women. Schimmel is critical of those—especially Western feminists—who take Islam to task without taking the time to comprehend the cultures, language, and traditions of the many societies in which Islam is the majority religion. Shattering stereotypes, Schimmel reconstructs an important but little-known chapter of Islamic spirituality. With copius examples, she shows the clear equality of women and meni nthe conception of the Prophet Muhammad, the Quran, the feminine language of the mystical tradition, and the role of holy mothers and unmarried women as manifestations of God. This work is studded with luminous texts from Arabic, Turkish, Persian, and particularly Indo-Muslim cultures, which reveal how physical love can give expression to the highest forms of mysticism.
Guiding Western readers through the endlessly fascinating and complicated system of Islamic personal names, Annemarie Schimmel's directory touches upon almost every aspect of Islamic life.
