Emanations of Grace

Mystical Poems by A'ishah al-Bacuniyah (d. 923/1517)

A'ishah al-Bacuniyah was one of the greatest female scholars in Islamic history; a mystic and prolific poet and writer, she composed more works in Arabic than any other woman prior to the 20th century. This volume of poetry, edited and translated into English for the first time, recounts A'ishah al-Bacuniyah's remarkable story of devotion and mystical illumination, challenging many Western stereotypes of Islam by presenting the thoughts, feelings, and concerns of an educated Muslim woman. A'ishah al-Bacuniyah does not write of hatred or violence, but of her love and longing for God and His Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhe wa salaam). These poems are a window into the world of others and the self.