"Sufism and Islam cannot be separated, in the same way that higher consciousness or awakening cannot be separated from Islam. Islam is not a historical phenomenon that began 1,400 years ago. It is the timeless art of awakening by means of submission. Sufism is the heart of Islam. It is as ancient as the rise of human consciousness." From the Introduction by Shaykh Fadhlalla HaeriMany have heard about Sufism, but beyond the current popularity of Rumi's poetry, few really know what Sufism stands for. This useful and easy to read introduction to Sufism describes its historical origins, essential concepts, principles and practices, and how it grew to spread throughout the world in the form of different orders or tariqahs. Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri adeptly explains this development, showing the relationship between Islam and Sufism, what it means to be a Sufi, and the relevance of Sufism in modern life. The reader also benefits from brief biographies of the most famous Sufi figures.