The Spiritual Writings of Amir ʿAbd al-Kader

by Michel Chodkiewicz

A selection of writings by a great nineteenth-century Sufi Shaikh in the direct lineage of Ibn 'Arabi.

Behind 'Abd al-Kader's role of brilliant warrior lay another, that of spiritual master in the direct lineage of Ibn 'Arabi, the Shaikh al-Akbar (the greatest shaikh). The thirty-nine texts translated here were chosen because they represent the major themes of the teaching of 'Abd al-Kader. Many are commentaries on passages from the writings of Ibn 'Arabi. They offer a rare opportunity to share the illumination of a master writing from his own direct experience.

Genres: Religion, Islam

244 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Dean Paradiso · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the best (and least known) books I've found with direct discourses on the essence of traditional Sufism, and the Islamic mystical perspective in terms of nondual experience. Written by a relatively unknown author (Amir Abd al-Kader) who lived in the mid 1800s and was involved at the time of the French occupation of Algeria and the Middle East. Fortunately, his writings were preserved, discovered and now translated (from Arabic to French to English), and seem in relatively good order. It was easy to read and understand (although some background knowledge is helpful re: the basics and terminology of Islam and Ibn 'Arabi's view of Sufism). The author really inspired respect and authority during my reading, largely because he writes from his own direct experience of nondual awareness and episodes of mystical unity, while at the same time being a top military leader, friend of kings, and family man. My only wish would be to find some more writings by the author which were a little more practical in detailing some of his daily life, practices and his recommendations for those beginning the Path. It is obvious though, that he would have been following all of the basic practices of orthodox Sunni Islam, (including optional practices), and had a secret basis in the work and lineage of Ibn Arabi. The translators have done a great job with this compilation of writings as well, and in their choice (out of many of the available notes).