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Rumi (1207-1273) was a Persian jurist and theologian best known for being perhaps the finest of all Sufi poets. His writings have been widely translated and remain especially popular in Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. Though written from a Sufi perspective, Rumi's poems on spiritual growth-here collected and edited by F. Hadland Davis and first published in 1907-cross all cultural and religious bounds, and can still be heard today in many secular and religious settings. The Persian Mystics: Jalalu'd-din Rumi includes selections from some of Rumi's most famous works, the "Divani Shamsi Tabriz" and the "Masnavi," as well as passages on his life and work, and the origin and nature of Sufism. FREDERICK HADLAND DAVIS is also the author of The Persian Mystics: Jami (1908) and Myths and Legends of Japan (1912), both available from Cosimo.

The scientific point of view has gained dominance in our growing world culture by basing its authenticity on an empirical foundation. Yet mystics can point to a different test of authenticity: the broad agreement in subtle perceptions of reality across many cultures and stretches of history. We benefit from the knowledge of the universe and the fascinating intricacies of nature, and we benefit from knowledge of meaning and purpose in the greater life of the cosmos and its implications for meaning in our own lives. An understanding and appreciation of the inner life of the universe can offer an integration of the scientific story of the outer life with the insight of mystics into the inner story, distinguishing the realms appropriate for science and spirituality to explore, and offering hope that they can coexist in mutual respect and harmony, and that each could enrich the other.

Sheikh Shihabuddin Yahya Suhrawardi, the great illuminist philosopher and mystic of the 12th century, evoked such opposition and hatred in the orthodox of his time that he was put to death, at their insistence, by order of Saladin's nephew in 1191. He became known thereafter as "the Murdered Sheikh." In addition to his monumental exposition, The Wisdom of Illumination, and other major works, he left a number of smaller treatises which form an important part of the Sufi heritage. Nine of these treatises, dealing with the initiation of the aspirant into the spiritual realm, are here presented in English, with an introduction by the translator, W. M. Thackston, Jr.

Maneri (c. 1263-1381), born in India, was one of the most famous Islamic saints and one of the greatest Sufi masters. The Hundred Letters is a basic presentation of his teachings for spiritual advancement.

A wide network of rivers make Bangladesh one of the largest maritime nations in the world. Various types of inland marine crafts have been carrying cargo and passengers for thousands of years. Being self sufficient in resources, ancient Bangladeshis did not have to venture outside their nation and therefore, ocean borne navigation was never an important aspect of their life. Inland marine was an important feature in the lifestyle of Bangladeshis and will remain so for a long time.