12 Basic Books
The Essential Rumi by Coleman Barks offers a sterling collection of versions of the ecstatic poetry of Jelaluddin Rumi (1207-1273), the great Sufi poet who has turned out to be a doctor of soul for our times.
Essential Sufism by James Fadiman and Robert Frager is a compendium of articles and poetry from a wide variety of sources on the spiritual qualities valued in Sufism: faith, humility, gratitude, patience, and generosity.
The Fragrance of Faith by Jamal Rahman provides a treasure trove of wisdom from the Prophet Muhammad, Rumi, the Mullah Nasruddin, other Sufi seers, and the author's own parents and grandparents.
The Garden of Truth by Seyyed Hossein Nasr is a detailed tribute to this path with its rich blend of mystical poetry, diverse literature, spiritual ethics, and musical masterpieces, all of which speak to the hearts of those yearning for a closer intimacy with God.
In Search of the Hidden Treasure by Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan offers teachings and stories from an imaginary gathering of Sufis who share their mystical experiences and insights about humility, light, asceticism, and creativity.
The Knowing Heart by Kabir Helminski is an accessible and thorough discussion of the experiential, mystical, and practical nature of the Sufism that is tailor made for those seeking to transform their egos and purify their hearts.
The Last Barrier by Reshad Field is a classic primer on the mysteries and enchantments of the Sufi path and the ways in which a teacher gives his student just what he needs at the perfect time.
The Sufi Book of Life by Neil Douglas-Klotz provides commentaries on and practices for the 99 qualities of unity that can lead to fresh avenues of being, self-knowledge, meaning, and joy.
The Unveiling of Love by Sheik Muzaffer Ozak discusses the different shades of love and concludes that pleasing God is the goal of all affection and rituals.
Women of Sufism by Camille Adams Helminski is a luminous anthology of tales and writings from members of the Prophet's family to the modern-day scholar Annemarie Schimmel.
Working with Oneness by Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee gives a persuasive argument for the spiritual advance of unity consciousness where the Friends of God join with other kindred souls in a mystical activism that can bring new hope to humanity.
More books on Sufism
