The Gulistan of Saadi

The Gulistan,or ‘Rose Garden’, of Saadi of Shiraz is one of the best known and celebrated books written in the Persian language. In his introduction, Idries Shah says, ‘Like all Sufi materials, Saadi’s Rose Garden contains information, and is formulated to gain acceptance in the culture in which it is projected – and is an instrument of enlightenment and experience. Among Sufis, the readings of Saadi undoubtedly produces insights. In Sufi school usage, first the exterior meaning is absorbed, then the secondary meaning. This tension between the two levels, can lead to the ability to see further ranges of significance, until the stage may be reached when we find understanding beyond verbalisation.’