TALES OF THE DERVISHES
Teaching-stories of Sufi Masters over the past thousand years

Idries Shah

Octagon Press, London, 1982

A mysterious chest is buried unopened. A wondrous caravan brings fortune to a simple cobbler. An outcast princess creates a new life in the wilderness. Some of the 78 tales in this remarkable book first appeared in print over a thousand years ago, others are medieval classics. Yet, each has a special relevance for us on the eve of the 21st century. All are told with Idries Shah's distinctive wit and grace and the author's own commentary notes. These are teaching-stories in the Sufi tradition. Those who probe beyond the surface will find multiple meanings to challenge assumptions and foster new ways of thinking and perceiving.

Tales of the Dervishes is essential reading for anyone interested in Sufi thought, the significance and history of tales, or simply superb entertainment.

This is also available from ISHK in Spanish (CUENTOS DE LOS DERVICHES, Code CUDE1). Audio selections can be found in 'Overcoming Assumptions that Inhibit Spiritual Development,' Code OVAI1.

In accordance with the local culture, the audience and the requirements of the Teaching, Sufis have traditionally made use of appropriate selections from their unparalleled riches of transmitted lore.
In Sufi circles, it is customary for students to soak themselves in stories set for their study, so that the internal dimensions may be unlocked by the teaching master as and when the candidate is judged ready for the experiences which they bring.
-- From the Preface of Tales of the Dervishes © 1967, 1977, 1982 by The Estate of Idries Shah