The Spiritual Writings of Amir Abd al-Kader (Western Esoteric Traditions)

Anyone who reads the works of ibn Arabi needs this book. Not the largest book in the world and only a partial translation this is the writings of the great Sheikh Emir (Amir) abd al-Kader. A scholar of the Qadiri Sufi order well versed in the teachings of ibn Arabi, a defender of his homeland against French colonialism (something of a national hero in Algeria, he passed away in Syria after surrendering to the French, his remains were returned to Algeria after independence) He was one of the most well known and important of all the Sufi Sheikhs of that era (ranking along side Uthman dan Fodio, Imam as-Sanusi and Imam Shamil)Just to give you an idea of his importance when he did surrender to the French he was given a heros welcome on his arrival in Ottoman Istanbul and a street in Bursa was named after him.Its so important that is writings are published in English especially when we have the efforts of for example certain Middle East publishers who seem to be making great efforts in 'dumbing down' the Muslim faith to rigid rules and regulations.The Emirs writings are similar in style to ibn Arabis and it may be of use to familarise yourself with Sufism, try the Burckhard translation of the Fusus and the writings of Imam Haddad, Titus Burckhard and al-Ghazali otherwise you may find this book a little difficult to understand.

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).