The Sovereign Soul: Sufism--A Path for Today

By Phillip Gowins

The aim of the 1,500-year-old spiritual tradition of Sufism, it has been said, is “the elimination of all veils between man and God.” In June 2004, Sufi Master Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan died peacefully... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1892138107
• ISBN13: 9781892138101
• Release Date: July 2006
• Publisher: New Paradigm Books
• Length: 230 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.5" x 0.5" x 5.8"

Customer Reviews

An inspirational tour de force of the wisdom inherent within Sufi teachings.

Author Phillip Gowins, a teacher in the Sufi Order in the West, presents The Sovereign Soul, an homage and introduction to the mystical path of the 1,500-year-old spiritual tradition of Sufism. Blending elements of personal memoir, history, and philosophy into its presentation, The Sovereign Soul discusses how to get oneself on the path, exercise spiritual creativity, embrace love and sacrifice, prepare oneself for death, and much more. An inspirational tour de force of the wisdom inherent within Sufi teachings.

A clearer look at Sufi practice for the Western reader

I, initially, took this book out of the library in order to determine if it would contain any valuable information for me. Subsequently, I purchased it because, while I did not feel that Sufism was a path I planned to trod, there were aspects that I felt I could apply in my life. Along with the well explained Sufi "philosopy", there are exercises that I felt could be incorporated into the most structured, dogma based religions. Throughout the book, Mr. Gowins indicates the importance of a teacher and the need for "group" work and I totally understand that. His affection, admiration and respect for Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan's teachings are expressed. I am certain that one who is reading my comments might conclude that I am on a "cafeteria" path. Perhaps such is the case, yet, in response, I must go with my truth as it resonates for me. This book has value for the serious, yet neophyte seeker as well as for the individual who wishes to enhance his/her current elected practices.