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The Illuminated Rumi

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I find some of the other rather pedantic reviews a bit troubling. I can, of course, appreciate that those who are more knowledgable about Sufism in general, and Rumi in specific, might be disappointed in what some obviously consider a lack of credentials on Mr. Barks part; however, as a relative newcomer to Sufism and the works of Rumi, I must say that this is an excellent place to start. No, perhaps the translation is not exact, but the combination of the magnificent illuminations, and the undeniable strengh and power of Rumi's poetry will move many newcomers like myself to do further, more in depth research and hopefully capture the true essence of the message. And isn't that the point? Start the neophytes slowly, so as not to overwhelm them; intrigue them, in order to guide them. Why else would I be here?

Dschelaleddin Rumi ist einer der großartigsten spirituellen Dichter (jenseits aller Unterteilung der Gottessucher in die schrecklichen Grenzen der Religionen), Coleman Barks ist unbestritten der beste Übersetzer Rumis und dieses Buch ist das am schönsten gestaltete Buch, das ich seit langem in Händen gehalten habe. Ein Jammer, dass noch kein deutscher Verlag sich dieses Schatzes angenommen hat. Wenn es bei Büchern "must haves" gibt, dann ist dieses Kunstwerk von Michael Green definitiv eines davon. 5 Sterne mit Zusatzstern!

Coleman Barks has a way with words, which for the past few decades he's put to use casting the poems of 13th-century mystic Jalaluddin Rumi into contemporary language. Though considered one of the greatest poets the world has ever seen, Rumi was relatively unknown in the West until a recent surge in popularity due in no small part to Barks's efforts. THE ILLUMINATED RUMI presents readers with a pretty package indeed: deep thoughts, stirred emotions and illustrations galore. Yet while this would do most poets proud, it's doubtful Rumi would feel that way about his treatment at Barks's hands, if only because Barks speaks not a word of Persian, the language in which Rumi wrote. Barks freely admits he relied entirely on academic translations to concoct his popularized renderings. This would be less of a handicap were Rumi merely trying to entertain or to convey feelings, moods and subjective impressions. But as Barks himself points out, Rumi was a Sufi; and Sufis maintain that, far from being the emotional outpourings appearance might suggest, their poems are actually precise and carefully constructed technical instruments designed to have very specific effects on the reader under the right circumstances. These effects, which depend heavily upon the language in which the poems were written (not to mention the specific audience they were written for, which is another matter entirely), are easily blunted by translation and other forms of tampering. Barks - in translating translations - would seem to be carrying this tampering a step further, despite his good intentions. The result, however aesthetically pleasing and emotionally evocative, is unlikely to be what Rumi had in mind - any more than the miming of a surgeon's hand-movements, however gracefully executed, is likely to heal the sick. Those interested in Rumi's still-relevant message would do better to read THE SUFIS by Idries Shah, THE LIFE & WORK OF JALALUDDIN RUMI by Afzal Iqbal, or E.H. Whinfield's TEACHINGS OF RUMI.

Rumi, Coleman Barks, and Michael Green have collaborated on the most beautiful book I have ever seen (and I have seen a lot). Rumi's poetry trancends the artificial boundaries of religion, and speaks to anyone sincerely on the spiritual path. He captures the burning, the longing for the end of separation from God.

When I first became aware of Rumi's poetry, I was sure that it was about earthly love between humans here on earth. As I absorbed it more completely, I came to realize that all of his poetry, even his love poetry (which is very suitable for passing on to a loved one) is communicating with God.

Coleman Barks has done an amazing job of giving Rumi's work an accessable voice. He has truly given a gift for which we owe a huge debt of gratitude. Rumi provides the music, Coleman's translations provide the instruments.

Michael Green was obviously inspired by his collaborators to reach his own level of genius in the illustrations. I love the way he combines images from different cultures, different times, and from different disciplines both scientific and artistic! A desert oasis with a photo shot by the Hubble Space Telescope for the sky... The juxtaposition of fractal geometry with images from cultural art... I would gladly hang any of the original art from this book on the walls of my living room.

This book has been and continues to be my favorite gift to people who "get it," and I've probably handed out over 20 copies in the last two years. Do yourself a favor and buy it. I bet you'll be back for more copies.

I have been a lover of Rumi's poetry for some time. This combination of Coleman Barks' inspired translations and the enlightened illustrations are like walking through the infinite reaches of time and soul space. If I have a deep concern or question, I can pick it up and open it randomly as an oracle...For me it's wisdom transcends all boundaries. A beautiful gift for someone who can dance in the depths of spirit...or just for your Self.

That Love and loving are not affected by time and space is lovingly demonstrated by the "collaboration" of Rumi, Barks and Green. Through the inspired heart-work of Coleman Barks and Michael Green, we, the readers, are gifted by the Gift Rumi received. Now we can meet and perhaps love Rumi and his, our Beloved. I am forever touched and grateful to know Rumi. His words and his living presence communicate the human condition and the spirit-essence of all, inviting us to love as we are loved by our Lover.

I have never known a book that has altered my apprecitation for the spoken word. This books explodes off the pages with warmth, depth, and love.

A must read for the soul's journey homeward to the Self I read this work slowly, savoring the moments and the illuminations as sparks of awakening to my own soul.

I was introduced to Rumi's writings in January 1999 and I feel as though I have come home to an understanding that I could not always put into words.

As a writer/journalist myself, I find that often the words escape me, yet they are right outside of my mind's grasp. The writings/translations of Rumi and the pictorials in this book have moved me deeper than most work, inspiring me in my own world of words as I re-member to whom Rumi writes with such passion.Then, it brings me renewed passion for my own work.

I recently married a couple and used this book as part of the service. As a wedding present, I gifted the couple with this book. What a beautiful way for them to start their lives. I highly recommend this as a gift for others and for special occasions where you want to give a fine work both in art and literature.

On Mother's Day I shared this work with my oldest Son, age 26, who was also moved and he asked me to order this for him and his family...

Thank you Coleman Barks and Michael Green! I am deeply grateful to them for all they have contributed.

May we all live the messages of Rumi!

Read this book slowly, savoring each page and each picture. If you don't, you will miss much!

Coleman Barks and Michael Green have performed a rare feat, combining words and images successfully. No small acomplishment considering the subject matter. I and many people I have talked to have commented on how many times one can derive new levels of enjoyment and fulfillment when reading and viewing these illuminated verses.