With more than 3,000 entries and cross-references on the history, main figures, institutions, theory, and literary works associated with Islam's mystical tradition, Sufism, this dictionary brings together in one volume, extensive historical information that helps put contemporary events into a historical context. Additional features include: * chronology of all major figures and events * introductory essay * glossary of 400 Arabic, Berber, Chinese, Persian, and Turkish terms * comprehensive bibliography Ideal for libraries, as well as students and scholars of religion.