Synopses & Reviews
Review
"Highly recommended. Mason's preface is a fine introduction to the renowned Muslim mystic and the dramatic narrative that follows." --Choice
Review
“Mason’s poetic style lends itself well to the telling of such a powerful tale.” —Library Journal
Review
“A simple, evocative introduction to the teachings of one of Islam’s most enduring, and controversial, figures.” —Parabola
Review
"In well-constructed and beautiful poetic prose, Mason retells the mystical journey of Alexander the Great in search of immortality. He is guided by that well-known superhuman Muslim hero, Al-Khadir. The quest fails but the tale lives on as one of literary Persia's most beautiful narratives." —The Muslim World
Synopsis
Although not widely known in the Western world, al-Hallaj is one of the great figures in the history of the Muslim religion. Martyred in 922 by the government for his teachings, Hallaj has lived on through the centuries in the legends and memories of Muslims the world over. In this dramatic narrative of the last days of al-Hallaj, Herbert Mason has distilled the essence of Hallaj in moving, beautifully drawn scenes.
About the Author
Herbert Mason is professor emeritus of religion and William Goodwin Aurelio Professor of History and Religious Thought at Boston University.