The Book of Illumination

Ibn Ata’ Illah al-Iskandari

‘the Islamic work ethic explained’

“The Book of Illumination (Kitab al-Tanwir fi Isqat al-Tadbir) has been the basic training manual for Sufis in North Africa, and serves as an indispensible introduction to Ibn Ata’illah’s more advanced writings, such as his Sufi Aphorisms (Kitab al-Hikam).  In this age of conspicuous consumption and capitalist greed, a translation of the Book of Illumination has special value. It upholds the spiritual value of work while urging readers to simplify their reliance on material means and question their obsession with possessing and craving.  It argues for a spirituality of living in the world without relying on the world, a spirituality that is more relevant now than ever.” — Publisher’s Description

Contents

Desisting From Selfish Calculation

Resisting Selfish Calculation

Consequences of Selfish Calculation

The Miracle of Abandoning Selfish Calculation

Persisting Despite Selfish Calculation

Avoiding Selfish Calculation in Work and Worship

Overcoming Selfish Calculation

Desisting From Anxiety About Provision

Bodily Needs

Understanding Provision’s Guarantee

Seeking Provision

Receiving Provision

Appendix 1: The Sign of Success on the Spiritual Path

Appendix 2: The Challenge of Gender