Sufi Wisdoms – Hikem-i Ataiyye – (Book)

Sufi Wisdom –Hikem-i Ataiyye– is one of the significant texts within classical Islamic thought and Sufi literature. The work was composed in Arabic by Ibn Ata’illah Iskandari (d. 1309) and is particularly renowned within the Sufi tradition for its wise sayings. This edition, published by Dergâh Yayınları as part of its “Islamic Classics” series, has been prepared for publication by Professor Dr. Mustafa Kara. First printed in October 1990, the book consists of 192 pages and has reached its eighth printing as of November 2024.

Content and Thematic Structure

Sufi Wisdom –Hikem-i Ataiyye– consists of aphorisms in which Ibn Ata’illah Iskandari presents his Sufi ideas and moral teachings in brief, intense, and concise expressions. Central Sufi concepts such as detachment from the ego, reliance on God, surrender, orientation toward the Divine, renunciation of worldly blessings, and awareness of servitude are prominently highlighted. These expressions serve both as guides for individual contemplation and as instructional tools along the Sufi path.

The aphorisms in the book are not merely advisory in nature but constitute foundational elements of Sufi guidance; they are regarded as integral components of a religious thought system with metaphysical dimensions. The primary aim of the text is to encourage the reader toward an inner spiritual journey and to provide guidance regarding the spiritual states one may encounter along this path.

This edition by Dergâh Yayınları includes not only a Turkish translation of the work but also explanatory notes and commentaries. A brief biographical introduction to Ibn Ata’illah Iskandari and his writings is provided alongside interpretations and explanations of selected aphorisms. Additionally, the original Arabic text of the work is included in the volume.

Language and Style

The language of the work exhibits the characteristic features of the Sufi tradition: dense, meaning-laden, and concise expression. Structured as aphorisms, profound meanings are conveyed in a simple yet poetic tone. Professor Mustafa Kara’s Turkish edition carefully preserves the semantic integrity of the original text and aims to provide the reader with a clear and accessible translation.