Knowledge Before Action: Islamic Learning and Sufi Practice in the Life of Sayyid Jalal Al-Din Bukhari Makhdum-I Jahaniyan

Studies in Comparative Religion

by Amina M. Steinfels, Frederick M. Denny (Editor)

A study of the teachings of a revered South Asian Sufi master

Genres: Islam

264 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2012

Reviews

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great text on the Muslim scholar, poet, author, al Bukhari. Breaks down the Sufi/ulema distinction which has taken on great importance in recent years. She thinks that in historical terms, the distinction is not useful, and uses Bukhari as a prime example of someone with a foot in both worlds. The history of this thinker, along with his teachings, his politics and political role after the death of Tuglaq, his pilgrimages, and the rituals of his school are all examined. The book is vehement in denying the influence of Hindu thought on Al Bukhari, which I was a little skeptical of at times, but the author seems to be careful with sources and analysis so I have to accept it at least for the moment. Nevertheless it does bring up some interesting points regarding how south Asian religion in general proliferates and behaves, though it doesn't explicate this area of thought as much as I'd have wished.