Rumi - Past and Present, East and West

Lewis's claim is that "this book attempts to hold up a candle to the growing body of publications on Rumi, casting some light on the historical Rumi, the myths and traditions that developed around him, the history of his reception in the Islamic world and in the West, especially the phenomenon of his recent popularity." Lewis has excelled. His brilliant illumination surpasses that of a headlight by far! Franklin D Lewis dazzles and enthuses us with erudite information on every aspect of Rumi's life. A rewarding and enlightening read, Rumi: Past & Present, East & West is the most definitive work on this subject in the English language. It is without question a key work on Rumi in English.

We journey with the professor through some 600 pages which enrich us every millimetre of the way. Lewis draws us into the political and social atmosphere of 13th century Khorasan with consummate ease. He leads us to understand the circumstances and formative development of Rumi; the influence of his father, his teachers and the spiritual importance of his friend Shams al-Din Tabrizi.

The journey takes us via Rumi's reading and writings, the myths and misunderstanding surrounding him, to 50 of his poems. Lewis explains their transmission, metrics, rhyme, refrain, form, content and spiritual orientation. He illustrates the centrality of the Qur'an and the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and his progeny, to Rumi's life.

A valuable section is also included on Rumi in the Western consciousness and the contribution that various scholars in the West have made to our understanding of this remarkable spiritual teacher and poet. This book is excellent value for money and absolutely necessary for everyone who expresses any interest in Rumi at all. --Amar Hegedus

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Excellent study of Rumi - Rated
This is the best book one could ever buy in order to get a picture of Rumi, his life, upbringing, teachers, his influence within the west and the east, his poetry with farsi transliterations as well as websites addresses regarding the master Poet.

All in all a complete Rumi autobiography in one! The best part about the book to me was the transliteration of selected Farsi poetry which would enable anyone not knowing how to read Farsi to get a taste at how it would sound like if read out loud.

Get it if you want to know more about Rumi outside his poetry.

Exceptional Study of Rumi for public and scholars - Rated
Rumi has been a major literary force in America for nearly 20 years now. Carefully crafted translations, versions of his poems are more universally popular than most contemporary poet's work. His imagery and mystical fervor inspires and informs the hearts of lovers everywhere, yet there has been very little accessible scholarly work available about the Sufi and his life and times for many years. Most accounts of Rumi have stayed toward the legendary rather than the critical and historical account of his life. With Lewis work we are given a wonderfully fulsome account of the scholarly work about Rumi, not just in English but throughout the world. Lewis provides us with a critical account of his life and times as well as a brief history of the Sufi order that has thrived in his name. This work is now the best thorough introduction to the poet and mystic both for scholars and public. Highly recommended.