Synopses & Reviews
To what extent does mysticism require a withdrawal from the world? Is there a contradiction between the demands of contemplation and those of an active, responsible life? Is the mystical perspective antagonistic to the intellect? These are some of the issues examined in this book. Rafique Keshavjee uses as a case study the Ismailis of rural Iran, whose ideas and actions question the notion that Islamic mysticism is necessarily passive and other-worldly. His findings question the notion that Muslim life entails submission to any monolithic set of beliefs and practices.
About the Author
Rafique H. Keshavjee was formerly affiliated with the Institute of Ismaili Studies in London.
Table of Contents
Introduction * The Ismailis of Iran * The Paradox of World-Affirming Mysticism * Windows to an Understanding * The Pilgrimage * The World of Debates* Formal Pronouncements * The Coteries of Interpretation * Conclusions: The Plurality of Meaning and the Meaning of Plurality * Notes