The Fragrance of Faith

This book is a must read for those who want to gain an incite into the heart of Islam, a journey into the joy and wisdom of life as one relates to knowing and experiencing the mystery of life, and love as its ultimate source.

This book is both a accurate description of Islam and also a wonderful guide to realizing your true Self. Using entertaining Sufi Stories, beautiful quotes from the Qur'an and great Sufi Masters such as Rumi, along with practical exercises, Jamal Rahman provides an easy to read journey into complex spiritual ideas. I recommend "The Fragrance of Faith" to all spiritual seekers no matter what your specific path may be and to others interested in understanding the core beliefs of Islam.

This book serves as an excellent introduction of the Islamic faith to the average Westerner who may have only been exposed to stereotypical presentations of the religion. It also will deepen the knowledge and understanding for people who are interested in the core ideas and fundamental principles of Islam. It focuses on inner practice, fundamental themes (such as surrender, faith, truthfulness, humility, etc.) and applications to daily living. The chapters are short, the message is direct and lucid, but there is nothing simple (or simplified) about the presentation. It is a book you will want to read more than once.

Rahman writes with a very easy style, wrapping philosophy, his own outlook on life and Mysticism around life lessons he learnt from his grandfather who was a spiritual leader in the old country, Bangladesh. An example: "Allah wants us to be compassionate with ourselves". Rahman is himself the son of a Bangladeshi diplomat and a brand-new citizen of the USA, he teaches Sufism and is a counselor in Seattle; a rare and true man of peace and love towards all Mankind. Although the book is worked around Islam, Rahman integrates the Devine philosophy in a manner that will appeal to people of all religions or even non-religions. He peppers the book with liberal quotes from Jallaluddin Rumi, the famous Sufi poet which dive deep into the heart and humor of every person. Some Rumi quotes: On the beneficence of God: "For sixty years, I have been forgetful, every minute; but not for a second has this flowing toward me stopped or slowed". "You know the value of every article of merchandise but if you do not know the value of your own soul, it is all foolishness". "Not only the thirsty seek water, the water as well seeks the thirsty". Quotes from the Prophet Mohammed: "If a man gives up a fight when he is wrong, a house will be built for him in Paradise. But if a man gives up a fight even when he is in the right, a house will be built for him on the loftiest realm of Paradise. If anything, this book succeeds in transcending religion and presenting the common belief and meditation foundations of all Humanity. It is indeed a great, moving and inspiring book and WELL worth reading.