By Adnan Hameed
TWA
______
The unveiling of “Islamic Spirituality & Mysticism” marks a significant milestone in the literary landscape, as retired army general, Maj Gen (R) Muhammad Tahir, presents a profound introduction to Islamic Sufism. The book launch, hosted by the Nazriya Pakistan Council (NPC) at Aiwan-e-Quaid, Fatima Jinnah Park, gathered a distinguished audience, including esteemed writers, intellectuals, and media representatives.
Former Executive Director of LokVirsa, Uxi Mufti, lauded Gen Tahir’s meticulous exploration of Islamic Sufism, tracing its origins, evolution, and its global impact on the dissemination of Islam. Speaking as the Chief Guest, Mufti emphasized the book’s 680 pages as a testament to the author’s profound sense of responsibility and dedication to the subject.
Gen Tahir’s work emphasizes the Quran as the cornerstone of Sufi teachings, with the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) serving as the guiding light. The book draws extensively from the wisdom of revered mystics such as Fariduddin Attar, Maulana Rumi, and Imam Ghazali, advocating for the purity of self and a profound connection with the Divine.
In addition to celebrating the contributions of historical Sufi figures like Data Ganj Bux and Baba Farid, Gen Tahir offers a compelling rebuttal to criticisms of Sufism, as highlighted by Mufti. He urged the inclusion of the book in educational curricula to counter negative perceptions among the youth.
“Islamic Spirituality & Mysticism” follows Gen Tahir’s acclaimed work on Maulana Rumi, underscoring his prowess as a prolific writer in the realm of Sufi literature. The event saw engaging discussions led by notable figures such as Iftikhar Arif, Mian Muhammad Javed, and Dr. Raja Mazhar Hameed, Managing Director of the National Book Foundation (NBF), Mr Faisal Zahid Malik who is also Chairman & CEO of the Daily Pakistan Observer, former Defence Minister Lt Gen (R) NaeemLodhi, Admiral (R) Aziz Mirza, Maj Gen (RR) OwaisMushtaq, Maj Gen (R) Muhammad Yasin, Maj Gen MuhaammadSiddique, former VC Dr Zia Najam, former Finance Secretary, Abdullah Yousaf, former Secretary ECP, KanwarDilshadHussain, NargisNasir, Managing Director (MD) of the National Book Foundation (NBF) Dr Raja MazharHameed, poet MehboobZafar, Col (R) Sharafat Ali and Director Media of the NPC, HameedQaiser.
Published by the NBF, “Islamic Spirituality & Mysticism” is priced at PKR 1740 but is available at a discounted rate of PKR 870 at the NBF Book Shop.
