A Woman's Path to the Heart of Islam: Interviews by Rachel Et Jean-Pierre Cartier with Eva de Vitray-Meyerovitch

By Eva de Vitray-Meyerovitch

The renowned scholar Eva de Vitray Meyerovitch (1909-1999) was educated by nuns and went on to study Christian theology at the Sorbonne, taking degrees in law and ancient Greek philosophy. Yet a chance reading of Rumi inspired her to learn Persian in order to translate and make his works available for the French-speaking world. This dedication became her life's work. Her profound understanding of Rumi--which only a translator can truly attain--made it possible for her to bridge the two cultures in which she comfortably lived--modern day France and the 13th century Turkey of Rumi as well as the Islamic world today. In these provocative interviews with her, which compose this book, she explains that she was drawn to Rumi because his message "was so universal and so urgently needed, a message of love that brings together the most essential values of Christianity and Islam, giving them a totally fraternal and ecumenical dimension." Her impassioned perceptions into Rumi and his life offer fresh and often startling insights. Her story on these pages is not only about Rumi, but about the Islamic faith. After becoming a Muslim, and taking on a Sufi master, she had a particular vantage point onto another side of Islam, L'autre visage, that very few ever have the privilege to experience from within.. Her insights regarding the usual over-simplifications and prevailing stereotypes of Islam are beneficial "for a world in sore need of mutual respect and understanding." Her inner understanding and respect for the faith of her birth and the one of her adoption provide a unique perspective. This volume is sprinkled with the stories of female spiritual figures such as Teresa of Avila and Rabia. She highlights the astounding similarity between St Francis of Assisi and Rumi. Her thoughtful explanation of Sufism is illustrated by some of its greatest masters, interspersed with Christian scripture. These interviews take us on a breathtaking journey of faith, introducing us along the way to a wide range of thinkers--such as her extraordinary mentor Louis Massignon, and the rector of Cairo's Azhar University where she taught, as well as anecdotes involving her numerous personal friendships and professional encounters. Her moving, challenging, noble and often humorous story highlights the beauty that comes from a life of faith lived through the lens of her spiritual master Rumi.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1887752226
• ISBN13: 9781887752220
• Release Date: December 2020
• Publisher: Fons Vitae
• Length: 160 Pages
• Weight: 0.48 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 8.9"