The course will take learners on a mystical journey to the heart of Sufism and its poetic treasures. It will contextualise Sufism within a historical framework and highlight its various practices across cultures and epochs. The learner will then be introduced to key mystic/poetic figures within the traditions. The biographies of these poets and dervishes will be highlighted in addition to their poetic works, mystical practices and impact.

Throughout this course the learner will gain unique insights into the heart of the mystical traditions of Sufism, its practices, beliefs and continuing creative resonance today.

The course will begin with a brief introduction outlining the beginnings of Islam, it’s formation and consolidation. The etymology of key terms will be discussed and elucidated, including the word Sufism itself.

A discussion and exploration of mysticism, the mystical experience and practices will follow.

Next, key figures of early Sufism will be presented in their historical context. Here we will focus more specifically of Sufi praxis, namely the mystical/poetic tradition of writing, recitation and reading.

The focus on poetic/mystic practice will narrow accordingly as a maximum of half a dozen mystical Sufi poets will be presented; Rabia al-Adawiya, Mevlana Rumi, Lalla of Kashmir, Mirabai or Rajasthan and the others to follow. We will spend a session on each individual exploring their biography, philosophy and poetry.

In the final session of the term we will watch a contemporary Sufi film.