Product Description

Christians and Jews, as well as Muslims, called Jalaludin Rumi their teacher. Born in Afghanistan in the 13th century, Rumi is widely considered one of the greatest mystical teachers, and perhaps the greatest mystical poet of all time.

An important theme of Rumi's work is the danger of mistaking the "container for the content." He regarded even his own poetry as a "container" for the real purpose of his work.

"The Hundred Tales of Wisdom" is a collection of events and "action teachings" from Rumi's life, with stories, fables and verse from his work. This classic is part of the series of basic writings now being issued by Octagon Press.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #435952 in Books
• Published on: 1992-05
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 160 pages

Psychology Today, January 1979
"This book is one used by the Sufis to help develop insights beyond ordinary perceptions ..."

Doris Lessing, Books and Bookmen, May 1979
"What has been needed is a simple and clear version ... and here it is."

Language Notes
Text: English, Persian (translation)

Customer Reviews

a sound of the sound
This is a mediaeval hagiography of significant legendary and miraculous happenings in the life of Rumi and his companions.It isn't the usual stuff found on most peoples reading lists in the west at this time.Nevertheless there is a certain tone to be heard here.If you hear it, it may ring with other sounds you've heard befor; if that happens you may hear more.

Rumi's Wisdom
This Middle Eastern classic by the great Sufi mystic & poet Jalaludin Rumi has been a part of Sufi study for 700 years. Part biography and part anthology, its tales, anecdotes and narratives are still used to develop insights beyond ordinary perceptions. Rumi taught Christians, Jews and Muslims alike. This may account for his current appeal. He is much in vogue in the West. His major work, The Mathnavi-i-Maanavi (Couplets of Inner Meaning) is considered to be one of the world's greatest books.

"You get out of it what is in it for you." wrote Rumi. He also wrote, "Do not look at my outward shape, but take what is in my hand."

The Hundred Tales of Wisdom is full of surprising; often shocking tales. Some are very funny. I think it may be better appreciated and better understood by those familiar with Idries Shah's The Sufis, Commanding Self and Knowing how to Know.

I think this book will appeal to those interested in Rumi's life and work or in Eastern thought and classical literature. It may also appeal to lovers of inspirational literature.... and to those who search for a clear understanding of themselves and their possibilities.