Al-Ghazali on Patience and Thankfulness

Overview

Originally written as a manual of spiritual instruction, this crucial work of medieval Islamic thought examines Sufi and mystical influences within the Muslim tradition to provide insight into the intellectual and religious history of the Muslim world. Written by one of the most famous theologian-mystics of all time, it is an in-depth discussion of two essential virtues of the religious and spiritual life: patience and thankfulness. Compelling and insightful, this exploration defines these virtues and examines their place in the Islamic worldview, with particular attention paid to their attainment and the influences that divert people from these virtues. This first-ever academic translation includes an introduction to the structure and development of al-Ghazali’s thought, as well as a biography, appendix, and index.

Reviews

"The series as a whole is a significant contribution to our understanding of this key figure in Islamic intellectual thought." —Oliver Leaman, professor of philosophy and Zantker Professor of Judaic Studies, University of Kentucky

Author Biography

Abu Hamid Muhammad al-Ghazali is regarded as one of the most influential thinkers of medieval Islam. A theologian, logician, jurist, and mystic, he is known for revealing the compatibility of the outward forms of religion with the inner experiences of the Sufi and mystical traditions. H. T. Littlejohn is a retired pastor and lecturer who has devoted many years of study to both Christian and Muslim theology. He lives in Seattle.