PAGE

Introduction

vii

Prologue

1

I.

Showing that the system of the universe originates in the Self, and that the continuation of the life of all individuals depends on strengthening the Self

16

II.

Showing that the life of the Self comes from forming desires and bringing them to birth

23

III.

Showing that the Self is strengthened by Love

28

IV.

Showing that the Self is weakened by asking

38

V.

Showing that when the Self is strengthened by Love it gains dominion over the outward and inward forces of the universe

43

VI.

A tale of which the moral is that negation of the Self is a doctrine invented by the subject races of mankind in order that by this means they may sap and weaken the character of their rulers

48

VII.

To the effect that Plato, whose thought has deeply influenced the mysticism and literature of Islam, followed the sheep's

p. vi

PAGE

doctrine, and that we must be on our guard against his theories

56

VIII.

Concerning the true nature of poetry and the reform of Islamic literature

60

IX.

Showing that the education of the Self has three stages: Obedience, Self- control, and Divine Vicegerency

72

X.

Setting forth the inner meanings of the names of Ali

85

XI.

Story of a young man of Merv who came to the saint Ali Hujwírí—God have mercy on him!—and complained that he was oppressed by his enemies

95

XII.

Story of the bird that was faint with thirst

100

XIII.

Story of the diamond and the coal

104

XIV.

Story of the Sheikh and the Brahmin, followed by a conversation between Ganges and Himalaya to the effect that the continuation of social life depends on firm attachment to the characteristic traditions of the community

108

XV.

Showing that the purpose of the Moslem's life is to exalt the Word of Allah, and that the Jihád (war against unbelievers), if it be prompted by land-hunger, is unlawful in the religion of Islam

116

XVI.

Precepts written for the Moslems of India by Mír Naját Nakshband, who is generally known as Bábá Sahrá’í

122

XVII.

Time is a sword

134

XVIII.

An invocation

141