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A book of advice 'through stimulating and engaging' The Wisdom of the Arabs Compiled by Suheil Bushrui  Oneworld Oxford, England, 2002 Pp. 249 “WE SPIN about and whirl our way through life, Then, rich and poor alike, at last seek rest Below the ground in hollow pits slate-covered; And there we do abide.” (Abu Tamman, a poet from the Abbasid period) The book offers advice on everything, from the demands of daily life to the path towards leadership and the search for the divine through stimulating and engaging. The book spans the entire range of poetry, prose, philosophy and drama, from classical literature and the Holy Koran to traditional folk sayings, in addition to the wisdom of Kahlil Gibran, the author of numerous books on Arabic, Anglo-Irish and English literature. Suheil Bushrui, a leading authority on Arabic and Lebanese literature, explains in the book's introduction that it presents a deeper insight into the joys, sadness and passions of the Arab people, by providing a “combination of practical and spiritual wisdom, as well as offering nourishment for readers of all backgrounds”. The author writes that Arab culture is a rich source of perpetual wisdom, characterised by learning, spirituality and a turbulent history, expressed through a diverse range of literature and poetry, both religious and secular. The volume contains thoughts and insight from all the key thinkers of Ancient Greek civilisation: Homer Herodotus, Sophocles and Socrates. It is divided into six parts, according to the themes of the excerpts, which are: divine path, being virtuous, the art of self-restraint, daily life, becoming a leader, art and learning. “The themed categories in [this book] offer insight into everything from spirituality to politics,” writes Bushrui. The excerpts have been accompanied by just as much explanation as has been felt necessary “to enhance appreciation of their merits without altering the character of a work intended for the general reader”, writes the author. The book is part of a series about wisdom from the world's most sacred writings. It offers a unique insight into the heart of each religion. It explores profound questions of life, from love to personal development. “Each title is as individual as the religion it represents, ensuring that these beautiful anthologies will comfort, encourage and inspire readers of all races and creeds for years to come,” writes Bushrui. The book can be found at Bustan Lil Kutob bookstore in Shmeisani. Hada Sarhan Monday, November 17, 2003 |