The Studies in the History and Culture of the Islamic Orient (STIO) is the series of “Supplements” to the journal Der Islam. Both are published by the Section for the History and Culture of the Near East in the Asian-African Institute of the University of Hamburg. The Section was established in 1908, before the foundation of the University of Hamburg. Under its first Director, C.H. Becker, it was the first academic centre in Germany in which teaching and research concentrated on the historical and cultural aspects of the Islamic world, and not just on philological issues. Many of Germany’s leading authorities in Islamic Studies have studied and/or taught here. The “Supplements” have maintained the same high quality and met the same high demands as the journal Der Islam and have published numerous studies on the history and culture of the Islamic world which have represented milestones in their relevant fields. The “New Series” of Supplements appearing since 2004 carries this tradition forward and provides a platform for publishing studies on the history and culture of the Islamic world from the beginnings of Islam up to the present day.

A 20th anniversary edition of the art classic that celebrates the intersection of creative expression and spirituality—from one of the greatest living artists of our time Twenty years after the original publication of The Mission of Art, Alex Grey’s inspirational message affirming art’s power for personal catharsis and spiritual awakening is stronger than ever. In this special anniversary edition, Grey—visionary painter, spiritual leader, and best-selling author—combines his extensive knowledge of art history with his own experiences in creating art at the boundaries of consciousness. Grey examines the roles of conscience and intention in the creative process, including practical techniques and exercises useful in exploring the spiritual dimensions of art. Challenging and thought-provoking, The Mission of Art will be appreciated by everyone who has ever contemplated the deeper purpose of creative expression.

Twelfth-century Rhineland mystic Hildegard von Bingen records her exquisite encounter with divinity, producing a magnificent fusion of divine inspiration and human intellect. Hildegard von Bingen’s Mystical Visions is perhaps the most complete and powerful documentation of mystical consciousness in recorded history. Now after 800 years, these visions are again available for those seeking to reawaken mystical consciousness.

Based on the compelling vision of Nicolas Black Elk as written by John G. Neihardt in Black Elk Speaks, Quentin H. Young has unlocked its messages, as he clarifies each detail of the vision. A vision given for all people of the world then, now, and for the future, and explains why a vision given to a young Lakota boy in 1872 has relevance today. Black Elk Speaks: As Black Elk, the bay horse, the blacks, whites, sorrels and buckskin horses all marched; they came to a cloud shaped like a tepee with a rainbow for its door. When Black Elk looked through the rainbow door, he saw six old men (Grandfathers) sitting inside. The eldest Grandfather spoke to Black Elk in a gentle manner and said; Enter and do not be afraid. As the Grandfather was speaking, all the horses whinnied, showing their support for Black Elk. He entered the lodge and stood in front of the Six Grandfathers. They looked older than men of the earth could be. The eldest Grandfather said; Your Grandfathers are having a gathering, and have sent for you, to instruct you. Black Elk said he knew these were not just old men; they were the powers of the six directions, and he was frightened.

Examines the mystic vision in the Grail Legend and the Divine Comedy in terms of history, theology and devotion and their affects upon later literature.

The McGinns draw from the Presence of God series to take a closer, personal look at the mystical vision of 12 great spiritual masters living before the Reformation. 12 illustrations.

Viewing human experience through the eyes of the soul, Bauman offers a profound wisdom steeped in ancient spiritual and philosophical traditions, grounded in modern physics, and capped with his own original soulful vision.