Ms.Wines writes this book in such a way that makes it so enjoyable. She seems to be a writer that any group can grasp her point. What a splendid book.

Rumi: A Spiritual Biography is that rare thing, a thoughtful, richly textured short biography that can appeal to a very broad audience. A delightful look at one of the world's greatest poets and humanists--Wines provides us with an insightful and precise portrait of a riveting historical figure. Her writing is intelligent, readable, and thought-provoking. I can't think of a more stimulating book about Rumi; the book is both informative and a wonderful read that not only sheds light on the nature of Rumi's spirituality and mystical endeavors and creativity, as well as his dramatic literary achievments but also elucidates the modern reader's strong appeal to and identification with Rumi.

As the critic Edwin Muir noted in 1926 of Lytton Strachey, Strachey (whose works became the touchstones for modern biography) did 2 things for biography: he humanized it by irony, he gave it form. He went out in search not of great figures and noble character, but of human nature, and he always found. So too does author Leslie Wines in Rumi: A Spiritual Biography.

Wines's biography of Rumi is rich with good storytelling and marvelous irony and, like Strachey, with just a little touch of sardonic wit. How else to approach the incredible legends and hagiographers of Rumi? But her approach is never disrespectful or irreverent. While critical of the hagiographic trend of Rumi's contemporaries, as well as most future historians, Wines does not simply and tediously recount these legends but, while wading through such ushers in a fresh and bold imagining of this great poet with a critical contemporary eye. Ultimately Rumi comes to life on the pages of this short literary biography like he never has before.

Wines humanizes Rumi. In short, Wines shows how Rumi's work responds to an increasing need many of us have for an instinctive and mystical response to life, and for a more joyful daily exiistence. She shows us how Rumi's very broad appeal--even to those who are not particularly interested in spiritual writings or even poetry--derives from his very genuine cosmopolitan nature and character. Like Rumi's own work there is little sentimentality for its own sake in the author's examination of her subject, which very convincinly sheds light on Rumi's contemporary relevance and dazzling creative appeal and our mystic identification with this great humanist. And she shows us how Rumi's meditations on love and the chaotic nature of poetry and life, along with the extraordinary social, cutural and politically tumultuous times (not unlike our own)of his life resonate with the modern reader and transcend medieval times to our own present day.

at first, I was put off by coleman barks' gruff voice, didn't seem appropriate to the words. but then it grew on me and now it seems like I can hear his love of the subject.
all in all, pretty good.

This collaboration of Coleman Barks reading Rumi, the tabla drum, the flute and sitar is such a perfect marriage of expressive music and delicious Rumi. It brings Rumi's words to life so well, I get levels of understanding and joy from the spoken words that reading them on the printed page alone seldom delivered.

These songs are not for the quick, the ephemeral, the here and now. Lay back. You're in a hurry, but there is time. There is distance between what you think you have to do, and what needs to be done. There is distance between you. And you. Lay back and come together. Listen . . . Hear it? You can hear yourself coming together. Like a suture.

If you don't have time for this book, let it bleed.

As one with a lifelong interest in mysticism, I have been reading Rumi for forty-five years now. Unfortunately, I cannot yet read the originals, and I have had to intuit the sense in some rather bloodless interpretations. Harvey, however, seems to hit it just right. To the degree that we can speak of these things during a person's lifetime, he seems to me to be a genuine mystic himself, passionate and full-blooded as the real thing usually is. Six months ago, I gave a copy of this to a much younger friend who had discerned the via negativa with no external guidance before we met. He rejoices in the book and is delighted to find words that exactly mirror his own untaught discoveries. I do not normally gush over such books. I was rigorously trained in Catholic theology and philosophy, hold a graduate degree in East Asian religion and identify myself as a Christian. I am not expert in Islam, though I know far more than the average reader, having edited one work on Rumi. So I tend to cast a jaundiced eye over most work like this. But if I were forced to reduce my library to a scant hundred volumes, The Way of Passion would still find an honored place. Rumi, though heterodox like all mystics, spoke powerfully not only to the Sufis of his time but to orthodox Muslims, Jews and Christians. Though Harvey certainly does not rank with Rumi, his interpretation can speak meaningfully to all persons of good will who do not barricade themselves behind denominational lines. On the basis of this book alone, I would read anything that Harvey writes.

The Divine Love, Divine Passion, Divine Power, and Divine Truth of Rumi are all explained here by Andrew Harvey. True to the book's title, Harvey has truly created a delightful celibration of Rumi and his works. If you are on your path, or even if you have wondered off the path into the dark forest, Harvey has provided a clear roadmap to the next level of transformation. This map comes repleat with warnings of speed traps, and roadsigns - telling of Rumi and Shams "wildness, violence, and ferocity" as they traveled down their path, drinking wine, and going ever onward, toward the Sun. Just enjoying moments of Divine Grace.

Rumi is one of the greatest spiritual mystics and poets who we can read today. This book is a wonderful guide, both through some of Rumi's poetry, and in gaining insight into Rumi's life. This book is one of my favorite books in my library. Andrew Harvey has clearly experienced the passion of Rumi himself, and is able to guide the reader through profound waters with skill. I found his commentary to be a bonus to the experience of reading Rumi.

This book may well become an American classic of poetry someday. It is by far the best English collection of Rumi's poetry, done by his most able translator.

Although Rumi's poetry -- as with most poetry -- is at core untranslatable, Barks has done a fine job in rendering older technical translations of the Maulana into poetic English. What one encounters here is not just Rumi, but Rumi filtered through Barks. If you object to that go learn Persian because no translation will be able to capture the subtle nuances conveyed through the original language.

Barks should be commended in showing us another face of Islam, and revealing, in the process, the timeless, universal and transreligious teachings of one of Islam's greatest saints.

For fans of Rumi/Barks, I suggest Winkel's new book: Damascus Steel. Its a work of fiction exploring contemporary political themes through sufi lenses, and was written before (!) September 11th.

At the risk of cliche, if you only buy a single book this year, please do yourself a favor and make it "The Essential Rumi." Rumi is for Americans who think that Islam is all about harems and terrorists. A sultry serenade to God, Rumi's poetry explodes in the soul with a beautiful force that tears down the wall between the individual and the Divine. Jelaluddin Rumi was a 13th Century Sufi mystic, the founder of the so-called "whirling dervishes", whose inner exploration allowed him to attain a rare level of enlightenment and connection with God. His poems resonate with truth and wisdom so earnest that it is impossible not to be swept away on a tide of pure spiritual longing and fulfillment. This is a book for anyone who loves poetry, religion, God, or love. And if you don't love these things now, you will by the time you finish "The Essential Rumi."

This book is a wonderful introduction to this very moving spiritual poetry. Rumi has an understanding of God and our relationship with Him that is unlike anything most people have ever experienced. His love and passion come across in this poetry, which has been beautifully translated by Coleman Barks. Mr. Barks has taken great lengths to group these poems into various sections that will allow a reader who is new to Rumi's poetry to see Rumi in a variety of ways. The book is not arranged chronologically or broken down into academic categories, but rather encompass larger topics ranging from bewilderment at God's presence to poems meant to teach. Each poem is carefully crafted to allow the thoughts of this master poet and mystic to shine. This is poetry of the first order. This book is the perfect introduction to Rumi or will complete the collection of any Rumi devotee.

I have one comment. I wish the translators of Rumi's works would know a little more about the language, history, and culture in which Rumi has created his works. I think this helps translation. Rumi's work is not just text books in mystics or others. It is a result of a civilization, understanding, and Love. Let's learn that.

This Rumi book ranks, to me, with Coleman Barks translations -- clear, lovely, insightful, beautiful. Star has great translation skills (as evidenced by several of his other books), and his selection of Rumi poems are exceptional. I have given many copies of this book away as gifts -- from weddings and showers to graduations and birthdays -- and I consistently hear back from people that this book has become one of their favorites, too. And the packaging is nearly as exquisite as the content. Highly recommended.

I actually haven't read the English version of this book, but I am a fan of the author and I've read some of his Persian works. I am concerned that some of your readers might consider "Rumi" as an Arabic poet and writer. He is Persian and he is one of our most famous pioneers in spirituality from almost 8 centuries ago.As a matter of fact, after Arab invasion to Iran 14 centuries ago, our language and literature were effected by them. That's why a lot of writers and scientists of that time have some books in Arabic.

I enjoyed reading this book as it reminded me of lighter times in my life. If I would have to pick somethhing that I liked best, I would go for the allegory of the 2 birds... read the book and you will understand.

I really enjoyed this book after stumbling on it among the new editions. The author seems to have used the contrasting themes (different religions, geography, world views, political complications) well to get his point across. I remember finishing my reading on a single, long night. The suspense mentioned in the preview also kept me going. Having visited Istanbul and Konya one time, I can tell you that his descriptions of these specific cities are pretty accurate. I also found myself visualizing some of the concepts he describes (such as being deprived of all senses for an extended period or the restlessness the young man constantly feels). There were some short cuts to obvious problems (no language problems for once), but overall the book provides a wealth of information for the reader about the old world, its cultures, its religious and philosophical concepts. This is one of those books that makes you question the decisions you made in life.

Rumi, Coleman Barks, and Michael Green have collaborated on the most beautiful book I have ever seen (and I have seen a lot). Rumi's poetry trancends the artificial boundaries of religion, and speaks to anyone sincerely on the spiritual path. He captures the burning, the longing for the end of separation from God.

When I first became aware of Rumi's poetry, I was sure that it was about earthly love between humans here on earth. As I absorbed it more completely, I came to realize that all of his poetry, even his love poetry (which is very suitable for passing on to a loved one) is communicating with God.

Coleman Barks has done an amazing job of giving Rumi's work an accessable voice. He has truly given a gift for which we owe a huge debt of gratitude. Rumi provides the music, Coleman's translations provide the instruments.

Michael Green was obviously inspired by his collaborators to reach his own level of genius in the illustrations. I love the way he combines images from different cultures, different times, and from different disciplines both scientific and artistic! A desert oasis with a photo shot by the Hubble Space Telescope for the sky... The juxtaposition of fractal geometry with images from cultural art... I would gladly hang any of the original art from this book on the walls of my living room.

This book has been and continues to be my favorite gift to people who "get it," and I've probably handed out over 20 copies in the last two years. Do yourself a favor and buy it. I bet you'll be back for more copies.

COLEMAN BARKS IS A MODERN RUMI WITH THE SAME ECSTATIC SENSE OF THE SACRED THAT RUMI WAS POSSESSED BY -- AND THE COMBINATION OF BARKS' TRANSLATED TEXT WITH MICHAEL GREEN'S VISUAL CHOICES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF IMAGES TAKES RUMI'S POETRY TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL -- THE ISOLATION OF SINGLE WORDS AND SHORT PHRASES WITHIN THE IMAGES INVIGORATES, ENLIVENS, ILLUMINATES (PERFECT TITLE) AND "DECODES" THE SACRED "LOGOS" ASPECTS OF THE WORDS. I'VE GIVEN ABOUT 20 OF THESE AS GIFTS IN THE LAST YEAR, AND EVERY PERSON WAS TOTALLY ENTRANCED BY THE BOOK!

That Love and loving are not affected by time and space is lovingly demonstrated by the "collaboration" of Rumi, Barks and Green. Through the inspired heart-work of Coleman Barks and Michael Green, we, the readers, are gifted by the Gift Rumi received. Now we can meet and perhaps love Rumi and his, our Beloved. I am forever touched and grateful to know Rumi. His words and his living presence communicate the human condition and the spirit-essence of all, inviting us to love as we are loved by our Lover.

I appreciate the author's attempt to revive a phenomena which has been dead for a few centuries now. The fact is that suffism never had a useful role in the everyday life of moslems and with all their claims of greatness they could not foresee the collapse of Islamic world, and with it of course the collapse of suffism. We appreciate "romantic" writings of sufis but it would have been more useful if they had engaged in some sort of reform movements in order to possibly prevent the fall of Islamic world. Sufis never bothered with more relevant and practical aspect of human life, they never advanced any political theory to help Islamic world rid of itself from tyrany of authoritarian rulers and indeed it seems as if they approve of such a system and political structure. At anyrate, suffism as we know it, rose to its peak, like Islamic civilization itself, and then declined and died away. Suffism today is a name without a reality, just as Islam is a name without a reality, or if it has a reality it is a confused and confusing reality. It would be interesting to see if authors like Mr. Chittic will be able to breath life into a dead phenomena by romanticizing it.

This is a good book on explaining some of the poems of the great mystic Rumi. I somewhat disagree with the authors choice of title. many great sufis refrained calling themselves sufi, after the movement became popularized and took a different color. Sufi orders sprung up like mushroom and every group claimed to follow a great mystic figure, like Rumi. one often wonders if Rumi and his like would have approved of notions like "Sufi order" which seems like "feudaliztion" of the movement. Many great mystics avoided " orderization" of their path. Their "order" was simply Islam and the path to realization was sharia itself. To many, becoming a sufi is nothing more than repeating certain names of God about a zillion times and whirling around till one gets dizzy or as one of my modern day sufi friend puts it " one becomes natural high". And that dizziness or " natural high" is interpreted as " self disclosure" of God. It doesn't take much to " unveil" God, does it?

To be very precise this book is full of intoxication and ecstacy of GOD

Rumi's mystic is the mystic of love which doesnt have beginning and end,wherever you start from , it does represent a portion of flood-wise that sweep out all conventional understanding.Neither Rumi nor Hafez represent any certain culture but LOVE that emerge in forms of paradoxical verses depend on your preception.I respect Rumi's Masnawi as encyclopaedia of mysticism,but I would ruther love Shams valume that has alot to do with human soul,even verses of blasphemous.Masnawi needs more study-background whereas Shams interduce you to the gigant mainstream of love.

This is a highly practical yet lighthearted guide for traversing the spiritual path. Liberally interlaced with Rumi's sublime poetry, Denise Breton and Christopher Largent make the transformational journey comprehensible and alluring offering the reader illuminating insights and beautiful prose. Highly recommended!

I thought I liked Rumi. After reading this tour de force by Breton/Largent, I not only appreciate Rumi, I love Rumi. This book helps us bridge appreciation of Rumi as an artist and spiritual master, and actually apply his perceptions to our own lives in a practical, accessible way. I now read Rumi completely freshly. In fact, Breton and Largent's explanations of Rumi's poetry contain so much wisdom that even without the poetry as a bonus, I would have gotten more than my money's worth. This is the one that is on my bedstand!

Professor Thackston has done admirably with this translation of "Fihi ma fihi." Especially since, in my opinion, this is the hardest of Rumi's works to translate.

In his poetry, Rumi is sublime, and accordingly difficult to translate, but any translator can only do so much with a poem. If you miss some nuances, it's just the tradeoff that the translator of poetry must make. The "Masnavi", on the other hand, is a lengthy work, but it has a coherence that makes the translator's life relatively easy and compels the reader on.

"Fihi ma fihi", however, very often seems to ramble off in a thousand directions. Indeed, sometimes it's hard to escape the feeling that this book was Rumi's attic, all full of jumbled odds and ends, many of them beautiful, but not necessarily in any coherent order. In fact, however, a second reading can reveal that the book is a great deal more than that. If you have been under the impression that Rumi is a sort of Omar Khayyam for the New Age, this book can convince you that just possibly he belongs in company with Shakespeare, Goethe and Pushkin.

This translation is eminently readable and even prods the reader on. Professor Thackston has certainly succeeded in translating Rumi's infallible knack to make us look at the world through different eyes. The one sacrifice was Rumi's elegant rhetoric, which just can't be translated. For that you'll have to learn Farsi. In the meantime, this book is to be enjoyed.

Rumi's discourses are really not so different from his poetry. In each he tries to make the listener (because his style is essentially teacher speaking to apprentice) understand that it is LOGICAL to see how much God loves each person. Because it is more difficult for the rest of us to see what is obvious to those so touched with delight by the intimate presence of God, he uses emotions to convey what to him is the logic. He thus uses poetic language to convey the message, since we find it easier to "understand" an emotive content. Much as Christ spoke in what must have seemed to many impossibly hard-to-understand metaphors, Rumi's discourses do often require an extraordinary "letting go" to sense the logic in his argument. An important work for all the ages.

It is the translation of Fihi Ma Fihi, which is full of Rumi's discourses. It sort of dispells all notions of "sufism vs islam" rather sufism is Islamic Mysticism in the truest sense and Rumi explains why the outter conformity to the Sharia (Sacred Law)is very important (i.e. the religous dispensations that are given to mankind through the last of the revalatory Porphet, according to Islam; Prophet Muhammed saws). He himself was a Hanafi (one of the four schools of law within the Orthodox Islam).

The book really clarifies his thoughts and ideas behind the poems. Lot of western readers of his poems tend to use his semantics and syntex to project their own meaning to it rather than discover the deep insights and the Reality he is trying to point toward.

"I am the servant of the Qur'an While I am still alive.

I am the dust on the path of Muhammad, the Chosen One."

(Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi) http://www.jerrahi.org/writings_english/invitation.htm