The Origins of Andalusian Mysticism

The Origins of Andalusian Mysticism

Author: Filip Holm June 27, 2023 Duration: 27:06

In this episode, we delve into the diverse world of Islamic mysticism beyond just Sufism. Join us as we explore the various types of mysticism that have existed throughout the history of Islam. Discover the differences and similarities between them, and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating aspect of Islamic spirituality.


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Sources/Further Reading:

  • Casewit, Yousef (2017). "The Mystics of al-Andalus: Ibn Barrajan and Islamic Thought in the Twelfth Century". Cambridge University Press.
  • Casewit, Yousef (2020). "Shushtarī’s Treatise on the Limits of Theology and Sufism: Discursive Knowledge (ʿilm), Direct Recognition (maʿrifa), and Mystical Realization (taḥqīq) in al-Risāla al-Quṣāriyya". Article. Divinity School, The University of Chicago.
  • Casewit, Yousef (2020). "The Treatise on the Ascension (al-Risālaal-miʿrājiyya): Cosmology and Time in the Writings of Abū l-Ḥasan al-Shushtarī (d. 668/1269)". In "Light upon Light: Essays in Islamic Thought and History in Honor of Gerhard Bowering". Edited by Jamal J. Elias & Bilal Orfali. Brill.
  • Cornell, Vincent J. (Tranlated by) (1996). "The Way of Abu Madyan: The Works of Abu Madyan Shu'ayb". The Islamic Text Society.
  • Cornell, Vincent J. (1998). "Realm of the Saint: Power and Authority in Moroccan Sufism". University of Texas Press.
  • Ebstein, Michael (2014). "Mysticism and Philosophy in al-Andalus: Ibn Masarra, Ibn al-Arabi and the Isma'ili Tradition". Brill.
  • Fierro, Maribel (2005). "Proto-Malikis, Malikis, and reformed Malikis in al-Andalus". In "The Islamic School of Law: Evolution, Devolution, and Progress". Edited by Peri Bearman, Rudolph Peters & Frank E. Vogel. Harvard University Press.
  • Karamustafa, Ahmet T. (2007). "Sufism - the formative period". Edinburgh University Press.
  • Knysh, Alexander (2000). "Islamic Mysticism: A Short History". Brill.
  • Stroumsa, Sarah & Sara Sviri (2009). "The Beginnings of Mystical Philosophy in al-Andalus: Ibn Masarra and his Epistle on Contemplation". JSAI 36. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
  • Wymann-Landgraf, Umar F. Abd-Allah (2013). "Malik and Medina: Islamic Legal Reasoning in the Formative Period". Brill.


#sufism #mysticism #andalucia


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Hosted by Filip Holm, Let's Talk Religion is a deep, accessible exploration of belief systems that have shaped human history and continue to define cultures. This isn't about preaching or debate; it's a thoughtful journey grounded in academic rigor and genuine curiosity. Each episode serves as a guided conversation, peeling back the layers of major world religions and lesser-known spiritual paths to examine their core tenets, historical development, and cultural impact. You'll hear detailed profiles of pivotal figures, from foundational prophets and philosophers to mystical poets and reformers, all placed within their rich historical context. The goal is to build a foundation of understanding, moving beyond headlines and stereotypes to appreciate the complex narratives and lived experiences within each tradition. By approaching religion as a multifaceted subject worthy of serious study, this podcast creates a space for listeners to reflect on the profound questions and diverse answers humanity has offered. Tune in for a consistently enlightening experience that treats religious thought with the depth and nuance it deserves, making each topic resonate with both intellectual and personal significance. This is a podcast for anyone who wants to listen and learn, to find connections and contrasts in the stories we tell about the divine, the sacred, and our place in the world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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