Sufi Saint of the Twentieth Century: Shaikh Ahmad al-'Alawi

Excellent, beautifully written

Very good.

After the opening chapter which is very insightful and heart felt, the rest of the book is neo-sufi questionable mysticism.

Made purchase of 'Sufi Saint' by way of Thomas Merton's exceptional praise of the text which he read in the early 60''s.The first chapter, "Seen From The Inside" is an account of a doctor who cared for the Shaikh when ill and remaineda disciple of sorts/ confidante for many years. The inspired beauty of the M.D.' account flows like a first-hand lifecomposed by a disiple of a Christian Saint. The writing in this opening chapter is exceptional for its power to conveythe holiness and truth of Al-Alawi. Going further along with succeeding chapters may either interest or put off the reader.If the reader is interested in the minutia of Sufism, here's your treat. If not--like myself--just skip those chapters. Does thegeneral public know that the Sufi sect of Islam is under attack by mainstream Islam. Isis kill off Sufi like the Churchonce burnt heretics at the stake.

Following intensive research, the purchase of this book has been a part of the process of building a library of Islamic literature, that relates particularly to seeking the path of excellence in spirituality, purification of the heart, ascetism, and an appreciation and understanding of the experiences of those who have followed this very path previously. The goal, God willing, in turn is to be inspired and motivated to seek success in a journey of personal development. Hence, this book is a piece of the puzzle of the big picture. I have been very pleased with this book.