Sufi Talks

Bob Frager came and spoke at last year's Mystics and Scientists conference. This book is a compilation of talks given in his capacity as a Sheikh deeply immersed in the Sufi tradition. When it comes to the wisdom of life, spiritual traditions have all the resources necessary for the aspirant who chooses to walk a particular path with resolute persistence. The 21 chapters explore different aspects of spiritual psychology, including obstacles on the path, transforming our ego and reducing our narcissism, inner work, hospitality, spiritual poverty and generosity. Throughout, there are telling stories, epigrams and simple injunctions such as learning how to be less selfish and to love. One of Bob's teachers spoke about the importance of listening and practising remembrance of God. These instructions are simple but not easy. One exemplary chapter tells the life of and stories about Ibrahim bin Adhem, and there is another story about two friends: one decided to go to a brothel and the other to a recitation of the Quran. The one in the brothel was thinking of the Quran and the recitation he was missing, while his friend at the recitation couldn't stop thinking about beautiful women he was missing. The ultimate result was that the first man went to heaven and the second to hell – we are measured by our thoughts and intentions as well as our actions. A wise and illuminating book.