This is the second in a three-volume set titled "Emerald Hills of the Heart" on the place and meaning of Sufism within Islam. M. Fethullah Gulen is a well-known scholar in the Muslim world; the translation here is by Ali Unal.
In the introduction, the author spells out the pivotal role of the heart in Sufism:
"The heart is the center of the human existence which is considered by God in evaluating humans. God treats people according to the quality of their hearts, as the heart is the stronghold of many elements vital to the believer's spiritual life and humanity: reason, knowledge, knowledge of God, intention, belief, wisdom, and nearness to God Almighty."
Grun then presents 50 essential concepts of the Sufi path, including Guidance and the Guide; Silence; Privacy and Company; Unity and Multiplicity; Attention and Regard; and Sincere Friendship. These are the stepping stones for the process of self-purification and spiritual progress.
