Living Presence (Revised): The Sufi Path to Mindfulness and the Essential Self

By Kabir Helminski

Book Overview

A revised 25th anniversary edition of the classic work on Sufism that Jack Kornfield called, "A heartfelt modern illumination of the Sufi path, filled with the fragrance of the ancients."

In Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, presence is the quality that describes a heart-filled state of mindfulness, an experience of being conscious in the present moment. It is only in this present moment, Sufi teachings reveal, that we can connect with the Divine, and the Divine can live through us.

Kabir Helminski is one of the world's most recognized teachers of Sufism. Named one of the "500 Most Influential Muslims" in the world by Georgetown University and the Royal Strategic Studies Center, Helminski and his teachings are touchstones for the growth in interest in Sufism, and his books have been translated around the world. In Living Presence, Helminski lays out the basic principles of Sufism, and how these ideas can lead to the experience of presence. In this inspiring work, readers will learn how to cultivate presence in their lives through:

* Finding a balance between the outer stimuli of the world and our inner reactions to them
* Harnessing faithfulness and gracefulness
* Learning about the parallels between ancient spiritual wisdom and modern psychological knowledge
* Meditation and contemplation to discover more meaning in daily life

With unique clarity, this book describes how presence can be developed to vastly improve our lives. Drawing on the work of the beloved Sufi poet, Rumi, as well as traditional material and personal experience, this book integrates the ancient wisdom of Sufism with the needs of contemporary life. Completely revised and updated for its 25th anniversary, this edition of Living Presence offers a wisdom that is both universal and practical.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0143130137
• ISBN13: 9780143130130
• Release Date: May 2017
• Publisher: Tarcher
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.52 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.4" x 8.2"

Customer Reviews

The Best Psychospiritual Treatise I have found

Helminski presents the Sufi path in a clear concise and most helpful way. I am a contemplative Christian and found this book to be consistent with all the teachings of Christ, and of the Apostles. Christianity has been westernized--and this book reminds me that indeed it was and is a belief system with definite Middle Eastern roots. Helminski is a devout follower of Rumi and the joy, focus and essential teachings of Mohamed, and of Jesus Christ are given respect and credit. Sufism is transcendent and encompasses so many other paths. This book is awakening and enlightment. Read it, re-read it and read it again.

Sufism for Today

All traditional teachings have their own peculiarities that derive from the times they were born; this often makes the reading of original texts a difficult task, sometimes boring. Helminski writes in the language of our time; his book is a masterpiece of 'seeing Sufism in perspective' and being able to express it in written form. Living Presence gives a wide and realistic view of spirituality. Gurdjieff influence is strong: those familiar with him will find the book a good summary of his teaching; there is no better one written with the eyes of Sufism. When we approch Unity the differences disappear and the Ways look very similar!

a thriller for those seeking deep understanding of life

the book leads the reader from the apparent ,which we all call and understand as real to that understanding which is indeed real and the very essence of life on this earth. a must for any one seeking a true understanding of LIFE

One of the best books you will ever read.

There are different things you can do with your time and different things you can read that would help you in some way. After reading a few chapters of this book you would become closer to reality and start to understand true worth and meaning of ... everything INVOLUNTARILY.

Just the Ticket.

This is an excellent book for someone seeking information about Sufism, about spiritual practice, or simply about how to live as a fully present spiritual being in our world. The chapters are short, digestible chunks in clearly written language, and include excerpts from Jelalludin Rumi's extradordinary poetry, as well as Helminski's wisdom garnered from more than two decades of Sufi study, practice, and leadership. This book balances the practical and the beautiful, and shows the sacredness inherent in human life. Someone who is remembering his or her connection to God, or wants to know how to remember that remembrance, will find "Living Presence" both useful and a joy to read. I highly recommend this book for anyone, both absolute beginners and those further along the path. A definite thumbs up!