Shams al-Ma'arif - The Most Dangerous Book in the World?

The Shams al-Ma'arif, or "The Sun of Knowledge," is presented as the most famous and infamous book of occult sciences in the Islamic and Arabic-speaking world. Revered by some for spiritual practices and esotericism, it is feared by others as a cursed book that can attract evil forces or Jinn. The video will explore its origins, author, and content.

Ahmad al-Buni, the attributed author of Shams al-Ma'arif, lived from the late 12th to mid-13th century, originating from Buna, modern-day Algeria, and spending most of his life in North Africa, primarily Egypt. He was a prominent Sufi teacher, a contemporary of Ibn Arabi, and deeply associated with the speculative Sufi culture of the Maghreb. His writings, the Corpus Buniunum, primarily focus on Sufism but also contain occult and esoteric aspects.

Most of al-Buni's writings are traditional Sufi texts, though some deal with more occult topics within a Sufi framework. While al-Buni did write a book titled Shams al-Ma'arif, research indicates that the famous, extensive version known today, often called Shams al-Ma'arif al-Kubra, is not his original work. His authentic work, the Shams al-Ma'arif al-Kubra, discusses the 'secrets of wielding occult powers and the knowledge of hidden forces'.

Central to al-Buni's writings is the 'science of letters,' which postulates that Arabic letters possess magical and occult powers. Different letters are linked to cosmological principles, planetary spheres, and the names of God, which can be used in spiritual practices and talismans. Ibn Arabi shared similar ideas, believing the universe to be made of letters and words spoken by God.

The book details practical uses of the science of letters, discusses Jinn and angels, and provides instructions for constructing 'alfas' or cryptograms, like magic squares, using letters and numbers. These methods, disguised from explicit mention of talismans, were considered spiritual work ('rouhania') rather than 'magic' (sihr), which carried negative connotations in the Islamic world. The information was intended for an initiated Sufi audience.

Al-Buni gained authority on occult sciences after his death, and his works remained popular, often read alongside Ibn Arabi's. While some critics like Ibn Taymiyya and Ibn Khaldun tried to outlaw these sciences, they didn't represent the majority view. The modern Shams al-Ma'arif al-Kubra, appearing in the 17th century, is a compilation, largely based on al-Buni's writings but heavily interpolated with later works, especially from Abdul Rahman al-Bistami.

The Shams al-Ma'arif al-Kubra, often called a grimoire, maintains a strong speculative Sufi framework. It presents an intricate cosmology connecting everything: divine names, letters, stars, heavenly spheres, and the human soul. The book details the powers of Arabic letters, their connection to moon mansions and planetary spheres, elements, zodiac signs, and angels. Numbers play a crucial role, particularly in gematria for constructing talismans and magic squares.

The text provides practical instructions for creating talismans through magic squares, letter incantations, and divine names, aligned with specific astrological conditions. For example, a 4x4 magic square for Jupiter can bring protection and fortune. These practices can be used for spiritual benefit, worldly concerns (like attracting affection or curing ailments), and even against enemies, though the author advises caution due to accountability on Judgment Day.

The book emphasizes the power of Divine Names, which can be recited or written for various effects. The name 'Allah' is supreme, and there's mention of a secret 'Greatest Name of God' that grants miraculous abilities, as evidenced by prophets like Jesus and Moses. The phrase Bismillah ('In the name of God, the Most Merciful, the Compassionate') is particularly potent, with an entire chapter dedicated to its powers. It is believed to contain all of reality, culminating in the dot under the letter 'ba', representing the universe's origin.

The book also describes how to summon good Jinn, primarily through Bismillah and Quranic verses, but heavily cautions against careless use due to the risk of summoning evil Jinn. It covers topics like the Ring of Solomon and the Staff of Moses, fulfilling expectations of Islamic occult traditions. The Shams is distinct from other occult texts like the Picatrix, being more rooted in Quranic and Sufi concepts, often considered more pious or Islamic.

Historically, the Shams al-Ma'arif wasn't widely seen as problematic, except by certain critics. However, in the last century, it gained an infamous reputation due to a shift towards materialistic and rational thinking, and the rise of modernist Islamic movements that rejected 'superstitious' aspects. The 'de-esoterization' of al-Buni's writings, disconnecting them from their Sufi cosmological framework, also contributed to its current perception as a book of black magic or devil worship.

Despite its controversial status, there is increasing interest in the Shams al-Ma'arif. Some groups still engage with it for spiritual development within an esoteric Sufi context, emphasizing study with a proper teacher. Recent English translations have further ignited attention. The text highlights that occult sciences were a significant part of historical Islamic-influenced cultures, offering a nuanced view of religion, history, and the occult without necessarily endorsing its normative status within Islam.