Martin Lings Book order

The book offers an insightful portrayal of the daily lives and spiritual practices of a group of Muslim mystics known as Sufis, utilizing firsthand sources that were previously unavailable to Western audiences. It delves into the unique aspects of Sufi culture and beliefs, providing readers with a deeper understanding of their mystical traditions and the context in which they operate. The vivid descriptions illuminate the richness of Sufi life, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in Islamic mysticism.

Highlighting the breadth of Martin Lings' scholarship, this collection features key writings on perennial philosophy, Islam, and Sufism. It includes his influential biography of the Prophet Muhammad, insights into the life of Sufi master Ahmad al-Alawi, and his notable work on Quranic calligraphy. Additionally, Lings' celebrated translations of Sufi poetry and explorations of Shakespeare's spiritual themes, particularly in Hamlet, showcase his deep understanding of mysticism and literature.

Exploring the intersection of Shakespeare's major plays with universal metaphysics and psychology, this collection of unpublished lectures by Martin Lings offers profound insights into their spiritual significance. Lings, a noted Shakespearean scholar and Sufi master, delves into the mystical and alchemical symbolism present in the works, revealing deeper layers of meaning and eschatological themes. His unique perspective invites readers to appreciate the timeless relevance of Shakespeare's artistry through a spiritual lens.

This translation is a short and accessible introduction to the Qur'an, written by a world-renowned scholar and Sufi master. A work in progress at the time of the author's death, this publication features selected verses that have been culled from previously unpublished writings. The translation emphasizes the spirituality and universal message at the heart of the Qur'an, and on facing pages the original Arabic text is presented, giving readers the opportunity to read the translation while fully viewing the original sacred text.

This is an anthology of 25 essays by the leading exponents of the perennialist school of comparative religious thought. It aims to be the most accessible introduction yet to the perspective of the Perennial Philosophy.

Exploring the significance of symbols across cultures and time, this volume delves into the common meanings that shape various religious traditions and metaphysical worldviews. It presents a compelling theory on the essential role of symbolism in human life, examining its relation to Divinity, the universe's hierarchy, human faculties, and the natural world. Featuring a 9th century Quranic manuscript, the work particularly emphasizes Christianity and Islam while addressing broader themes relevant to the great living religions.

In this, one of his last works, Martin Lings discusses the significance of the pilgrimage to Mecca, made annually by several million Muslims, in the light of the tradition of Abraham. Drawing upon his own experience of performing the pilgrimage first in 1946 and then in 1978, as well referring to the traditional sources, he considers the timeless spiritual meaning of the Hajj, which was proclaimed and established by Abraham and Ishmael and renewed by the Prophet Muhammad, in the context of its long history and comes to some surprising conclusions.

Sufi Poems is a selection of poems from the golden period of Sufism especially chosen and translated from the Arabic by the distinguished scholar Dr Martin Lings. Bilingual Arabic-English edition.

Exploring the themes of Sufism, Martin Lings reflects on the spiritual significance of earthly experiences as mere shadows of divine realities. He emphasizes that true blessings are found in the celestial realm, while the beauty of this world hints at a greater source. Lings articulates the role of art in capturing these transcendent qualities, suggesting that it reveals the "wings" of earthly objects that connect them to their divine origins. This collection includes three previously unpublished poems that embody these profound insights.

Shakespeare's essential greatness is clarified by placing his plays in the broad context of sacred art and showing his preoccupation with the quest for human perfection and the mystery of sanctification. In The Secret of Shakespeare, Martin Lings "says more to reveal the quintessence of Shakespeare's greatness than the most laborious exposition could ever do". -- Kathleen Raine