The Shambhala Guide to Sufism Book

As someone who has learned little bits and pieces about Sufism through an appreciation for the ecstatic religious poetic tradition made famous by those like Jelaluddin Rumi and Hafiz/Hafez, this book was invaluable. It helped to correct a lot of romantic notions about Sufism that are often put forward by lovers of these great poets who have not taken the time to respect and learn about the traditions from which they came - namely, the strain of Islam known in the West as "Sufism," but which represents a myriad of traditions and ideas within Muslim thought and practice. Ernst attempts to clarify the confusions and misapprehensions about Sufism that have been present since colonial times, and even within the Muslim community itself, without creating more rigid categories of his own. I found this helpful, but it could become frustrating for those looking for succinct responses. Highly recommended, but only for those with enough interest to wade through a book which lays out its information slowly, and has no bullet points for easy reference.