Meeting the ever increasing interest in Islam and Sufism, this book is the first comprehensive study of Sufi Qur’anic commentaries and includes translations of many writings previously unavailable in English. It examines the shared hermeneutical assumptions of Sufi writers and the diversity in style of Sufi commentaries. Some of the assumptions analyzed are:
* the Qur’an is a multi-layered and ambiguous text open to endless interpretation
* the knowledge of deeper meanings of the Qur’an is attainable by means other than transmitted interpretations and rational thought
* the self is dynamic, moving through states and stations which result in different interpretations at different times.
The styles of Sufi commentaries are explored, which range from philosophical musings to popular preaching to literary narrative and poetry. Other commentaries from the classical period are also investigated to provide context in understanding Sufi approaches and exegetical styles.
Biography
Cedric Cullingford
'This book will serve as an excellent introduction to this genre ... the author deserves congratulations on her great effort.' - The Muslim World Book Review
Kristin Zahra Sands’ Sufi Commentaries on the Qur’an in Classical Islam is certainly one of these meaningful studies. On account of its clarity, exemplary textual fidelity and sound translations from the Arabic and Persian, this monograph will serve as an effective basis for further inquiries into Sufi Qur’anic exegesis. It is, therefore, a welcome contribution to the growing literature on Islamic mysticism.
- Mohammed Rustom, University of Toronto
'This fine contribution to Sufi tafsir studies provides a reliable and well-written guide to many of the major works of that tradition and raises a number of importatn questions, especially about the categories with which we are accustomed to thinking about Islam' - Todd Lawson, University of Toronto, Journal of the American Oriental Society
