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John Baldock (1)

Author of The Essence of Sufism

For other authors named John Baldock, see the disambiguation page.

11+ Works 347 Members 2 Reviews 1 Favorited

Series

Works by John Baldock

Associated Works

The Egyptian Book of the Dead (1240) — Editor, some editions — 3,072 copies, 14 reviews
The Prophet / The Garden of the Prophet (1923) — Introduction, some editions — 146 copies, 3 reviews

Tagged

Common Knowledge

Members

Reviews

2 reviews
I am an atheist, but that doesn't prevent me from being deeply interested in the religious beliefs of others. Sufism is an exceptionally interesting religion, representing as it does the mystical arm of Islam. I had no idea that the Sufis had such a troubled and oppressed history, often at the hands of less understanding or compassionate Muslim rulers and demagogues.

Baldock's book is a good introduction to the area, although it reads too much in places like a glossary or encyclopedia. show more However, my interest is picqued, and I will look for books by the authors he mentions sometime soon. show less
Good overview of the mystical branch of Islam; positive and non-proselytizing. Here is where I first encountered the amazing quote from Rabi'ah, "O Lord! If I worship Thee in fear of Hell, burn me in Hell; and if I worship Thee in hope of Paradise, exclude me from Paradise; but if I worship Thee for Thine own sake, withhold not Thine everlasting beauty!"

She neglected to say anything about those motivated by seventy-two virgins.

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Associated Authors

Irēna Birzvalka Translator

Statistics

Works
11
Also by
2
Members
347
Popularity
#68,852
Rating
½ 3.6
Reviews
2
ISBNs
59
Languages
10
Favorited
1

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