Sufism and Taoism: A Comparative Study of Key Philosophical Concepts

In this deeply learned work, Toshihiko Izutsu compares the metaphysical and mystical thought—systems of Sufism and Taoism and discovers that, although historically unrelated, the two share features and patterns which prove fruitful for a transhistorical dialogue. His original and suggestive approach opens new doors in the study of comparative philosophy and mysticism.

Izutsu begins with Ibn 'Arabi, analyzing and isolating the major ontological concepts of this most challenging of Islamic thi...