A pithy pocket book of wise aphorisms, thoughts, and meditation themes about human nature and the modern world.

Idries Shah’s Observations are a randomised collection of the author’s penetrating viewpoints and perceptions influenced by the Sufi tradition of which he was part.

According to the Sufis, human faculties, although perceptive, are limited – much like a radio set, which can receive only certain electromagnetic waves. Through familiarisation with concepts, patterns of thought, and ideas that form part of Sufi contemporary literature, one can learn to penetrate beyond these limitations.

In this book, the reader will experience the unique quality of this material.

Shah’s Observations is a fine example of the lucidity and humour prevalent throughout his more than thirty published works. Each observation is a gem of wisdom that can be returned to again and again for more insight.

From Observations by Idries Shah
Copyright © The Estate of Idries Shah

Idries Shah was born in India in 1924 into an aristocratic Afghan family. He was an author and teacher in the Sufi tradition and is considered one of the leading thinkers of the 20th century.

Shah devoted his life to collecting, translating and adapting key works of Sufi classical literature for the needs of the West. Called by some 'practical philosophy' - these works represent centuries of Sufi and Islamic thought aimed at developing human potential. His best-known works include the seminal book The Sufis, several collections of teaching stories featuring the ‘wise fool’ Nasrudin, Reflections and Knowing How to Know.

Shah's corpus - over three dozen books on topics ranging from psychology and spirituality to travelogues and cultural studies - have been translated into two dozen languages and have sold millions of copies around the world. They are regarded as an important bridge between the cultures of East and West.