SPECIAL ILLUMINATION
The Sufi Use of Humor

Idries Shah

Octagon Press, London, 1977

These lines by the great teacher and mystic Jalaluddin Rumi indicate the many-faceted role of humor in Sufi teaching. Shah writes:
'As a shock-applier and tension-releaser and an indicator of false situations, humour, certainly to the Sufi in traditional usage, is one of the most effective instruments and diagnostic aids.'

The sixty jokes contained in this volume are not only representative of the type of material used in Sufi development, but their selection, arrangement and presentation comprise an actual learning experience for the modern reader.

Shah weaves contemporary jokes, humorous anecdotes and stories with skillful commentary. The result is an a entertaining journey which mixes laughter, introspection and surprise.

If you want special illumination, look upon the human face: See clearly within laughter the Essence of Ultimate Truth.'
--Rumi, From Special Illumination © 1977 by The Estate of Idries Shah

Multiple meanings and incongruities can assist in restoring flexibility to blinkered minds. Shah demonstrates these ideas with some very funny jokes'
--New Society