Sufi Warrior Saints: Stories of Sufi Jihad from Muslim Hagiography

This book presents a collection of hagiographical stories of Sufi saints, often referred to as friends of Gods, and examines the lives of Sufi mujahids during significant historical events, from the Crusades to the Mongol Invasion, in regions ranging from Islamic Spain to North Africa and India. It uses Persian and Arabic sources to showcase the range, themes, and global dissemination of Sufi literature on war and heroism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book presents a meticulously curated collection of hagiographical narratives featuring renowned Sufi saints, often affectionately referred to as the "Friends of God." Despite the vast abundance of Sufi literature, a significant portion of the rich, global, and centuries-old corpus of Sufi warrior-saints' writings has yet to be translated into English. In his insightful exploration, Neale aims to rectify prevalent misconceptions about the term "jihad" in its association with Sufi thought and practice. Through the lens of Sufi hagiography, treatises, travel accounts, and Muslim histories, each chapter delves into the lives of these revered Sufi saints during pivotal historical events, spanning from the Crusades to the Mongol Invasion and across diverse regions such as Islamic Spain, North Africa, and India. Drawing upon Persian and Arabic sources, this comprehensive compendium of translated hagiographies offers a profound insight into the vast expanse, thematic richness, and global dissemination of Sufi literature on war and heroism.

Introduction:
The study of Sufi saints and their hagiographies has captivated scholars and enthusiasts alike for centuries. These narratives, which often depict the lives and teachings of these spiritual figures, offer a profound insight into the spiritual and mystical dimensions of Islam. In this book, we will explore a thematic collection of hagiographical stories of Sufi saints, focusing on their roles as warriors and their contributions to the broader Islamic world.

Hagiographical Depictions of Sufi Mujahids:
One of the key themes in Sufi hagiography is the depiction of Sufi mujahids, who are often referred to as "warriors of God." These saints are portrayed as individuals who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the defense of Islam against external threats. However, the term "jihad" has often been misunderstood and misconstrued in its association with Sufi thought and practice.

Correction of Misconceptions:
In his book, Neale aims to correct these misunderstandings by examining hagiographical depictions of Sufi mujahids. He argues that the term "jihad" in Sufi context does not refer to physical warfare or armed conflict but rather to the inner struggle and self-discipline required to attain spiritual perfection. Sufi mujahids are portrayed as individuals who have renounced worldly desires and sought to align their actions with the will of God.

Global Dissemination of Sufi Literature:
Despite the rich and diverse literature of Sufi warrior-saints, much of it has yet to be translated into English. This book seeks to bridge this gap by presenting a compendium of translated hagiographies that showcase the lives and teachings of these saints. These narratives provide a glimpse into the global dissemination of Sufi thought and practice, highlighting the influence of Sufi saints on various cultures and regions.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of Sufi saints and their hagiographies. By examining the thematic collection of hagiographical stories of Sufi warrior-saints, Neale corrects misconceptions about the term "jihad" and provides a deeper understanding of the spiritual and mystical dimensions of Sufi thought and practice. Through the presentation of translated hagiographies, this book showcases the global dissemination of Sufi literature on war and heroism, highlighting the enduring legacy of these revered spiritual figures.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755643417