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The grimoire is divided into several sections, each addressing a specific aspect of magical practice, such as: The authors and publishers of this article do
The core of the Shams al-Ma'arif is built upon the concept of Ilm al-Huruf (the science of letters) and Ilm al-Wifq (the science of magic squares). Al-Buni posits that the Arabic alphabet and the 99 Names of Allah contain inherent spiritual power and cosmic vibrations. By arranging these elements into specific geometric patterns or mathematical squares, a practitioner is said to be able to communicate with spiritual entities, such as jinn and angels, or manifest physical changes in the world. This approach reflects a Neoplatonic worldview where the physical realm is inextricably linked to higher spiritual dimensions through a divine symbolic language. Al-Buni posits that the Arabic alphabet and the
Throughout the Islamic world, the work has been met with a duality of fascination and condemnation. For some practitioners of folk magic and certain esoteric Sufi orders, the book is a legitimate guide for spiritual protection and divine connection. However, orthodox Islamic jurisprudence generally views the text with extreme suspicion. Many scholars categorize its contents as sihr (black magic), which is strictly prohibited in Islam. Consequently, the book was banned in various regions for centuries, and even today, many Muslims believe that simply owning or reading the text can invite malevolent spiritual influences or bad luck. Throughout the Islamic world, the work has been
"Shams al-Ma'arif" is a medieval Arabic grimoire (a book of magic) written by Ahmad al-Buni. The book is considered one of the most important and influential works on magic and spirituality in the Islamic world. It contains a collection of prayers, rituals, and magical formulas for various purposes, including protection, divination, and spiritual growth.