TOWARDS THE SUMMIT OF REALITY IBD

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An Introduction to the Study of BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllahâÇÖs Seven Valleys and Four ValleysThis new revised edition uses the new translations of BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllahâÇÖs Seven Valleys and Four Valleys. During his sojourn in Sulaymaniyah in the 1850s BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllah came into contact with eminent Sufi leaders. In the Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys, epistles revealed for two of them, He sets forth the foundations of a renewed spiritual path. âÇÖAbduâÇÖl-Baha described the Seven Valleys as âÇÖa guide for human conductâÇÖ.ááááThis major new study focuses on the historical, doctrinal and literary background of the Seven Valley and the Four Valleys, and on BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllahâÇÖs revision of Sufi concepts in the light of the teachings of His new Revelation.áPart 1 explains aspects of Sufi doctrine important for an understanding of BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllahâÇÖs two epistles.Part 2 looks at literary works by Sufi saints, philosophers and poets quoted by BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllah, provides background to the stories and legends mentioned, and comments on aspects of BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllahâÇÖs allegorical language.Part 3 offers a concise analysis of philosophical and theological themes touched on, comparing Sufi doctrine with the explanations given by BahaâÇÖuâÇÖllah both in the epistles and in later writings.Part 4 addresses the mystical paths described in the two epistles, with the intention of encouraging personal insights. âÇÖThe BahaâÇÖi Faith is essentially mystic in character,âÇÖ writes Shoghi Effendi. âÇÖIts chief goal is the development of the individual and society, through the acquisition of spiritual virtues and powers.âÇÖComprehensive lists of quotations in the Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys from the QurâÇÖan and the Traditions are given in the Appendices.á