Masters of Wisdom of Central Asia by Hasan Lufti Shushud

I have read Masters of Wisdom of Central Asia – Teachings from the Sufi Path of Liberation by Hasan Lufti Shushud. As the title of the book suggests, the author introduces Sufi mystics and spiritual teachers (most of whom were active during the Middle Ages) from Central Asia.

Fun Introduction

I found the following introduction amusing. Perhaps I will use a similar formulation at some stage in an attempt to portray myself as humble:

‘From the shortcomings of my unworthy pen I take refuge in the spiritual grace of the great saints, and so I offer this humble work to the perspicacious and high-minded reader.’

Hasan Lufti Shushud – Masters of Wisdom of Central Asia. Page 6.

Fasting

When introducing Baha’ al-Din Naqshband, the author says the following about his teachings:

‘He regarded ascetic practices and especially fasting as the basis of spiritual progress. He used to say: “Without the self-discipline of hunger, thirst, strenuous tasks, and ritual prayer, no one gains mystic insight and vision.”’

Hasan Lufti Shushud – Masters of Wisdom of Central Asia. Pages 59-60.

Fasting – good for soul, mind, and body! I have often talked about the physical benefits of fasting (i.e. autophagy) – later on, I will elaborate on the spiritual benefits.

Jesus in a Dream

One of the most prominent Sufi mystics, Khwaja Ahrar (1404–1490), was visited by Jesus in a dream:

‘I saw the Prophet Jesus in a dream. At that time I was just fifteen years old. The venerable Prophet was standing at the threshold of the tomb of Shaikh Abu Bakr Shashi. I fell at his blessed feet. He raised my head from the ground, saying: “Do not be dismayed, for it is fitting that I should undertake your training.” When I told this dream to certain others, they interpreted it to mean that I should become a physician.’

Khwaja Ahrar

He goes on to note that this interpretation did not satisfy him, and his own interpretation was that, since the venerable Jesus had been endowed with the power to bring the dead to life, the dream must have meant that he (Ahrar) would receive the ability revive the hearts of men.

A Beautiful Insight

The author shares the following beautiful insight from Ahrar:

‘For those who achieve this degree of insight, every atom in the universe will surely become a mirror, in which they will behold the everlasting beauty of the Divine Countenance.’

Khwaja Ahrar

He also notes that the venerable Khwaja Ahrar is buried in Samarkand. As Enjoyers of The Greatest Podcast will know, I have long wanted to visit Samarkand – so, if I get around to embark on that journey, I will surely visit Ahrar’s tomb!

Phoenix of the West

I present the following excerpt from a poem without further context. I just thought it sounded epic.

‘Love am I, my whereabouts in space and time unknown;
Phoenix of the West am I, my mark and aim unknown. /…/
Although from every atom I shine forth like the sun,
The purpose of my shining forth still remains unknown.’

Khwaja Ahmad Samarqandi

Aside from the beauty of the poetry itself, I found it interesting that the mystic used the term Phoenix of the West. Pictured below: One of my humble artistic endeavours.

Conclusion

Masters of Wisdom of Central Asia has 178 pages and is a good read for those interested in the topic. On a personal note, I would have preferred more focus on the teachings of the mystics, as opposed to listing many names and lineages (too many names to keep track of!). I would rather recommend Rumi’s Four Essential Practices – Ecstatic Body, Awakened Soul by Will Johnson (review) to start with for those unfamiliar with Sufi mysticism.