By Murshid Wali Ali Meyer
Published by Ruhaniat Press
Murshid Wali Ali Meyer, along with his dedicated team, spent 8 years writing this biography, a 762 page book with 160 pictures. This captivating book traces the life of 20th century mystic Samuel L. Lewis. Known principally as a Sufi and Zen master, Murshid Sam also embodied the deep teachings of Hindu saints, the Kabbalah and the Christian mysteries.
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Devoted to relieving inner suffering, he also dedicated himself to relieving suffering in the outer world. Gardening, horticulture, farming methods, seed exchange and food production were a few of the approaches he used, as well as championing political and social causes. He shared his knowledge widely, including during two trips to Asia where his profound spiritual realization was broadly recognized. Furthering his goal of peace in the individual and in the world, he developed the Dances of Universal Peace which have spread worldwide. Samuel Lewis combined unshakable strength with great tenderness. His life continues to serve as an inspiration to persevere in the face of obstacles and to listen deeply to the Voice within.
Reviews
With a profound inner life, Samuel Lewis became known as both Sufi and Zen master. He also came to embody the deep teachings of living Hindu saints, the Kabbalah and the Christian mysteries. His horticultural endeavors and engagement in political and social causes throughout the world earned him international respect, and his spiritual realization generated a devoted following of spiritual seekers that is flourishing today.
— Pir Shabda Kahn, Sufi Ruhaniat International
A comprehensive testament to a pioneer of 20th Century spirituality, universal in its scope, a treasury of lore where the reader will find many spiritual gems. Samuel Lewis synthesized in his own being the essence of the traditions he had first-hand experience of: Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sufism, especially the lineage of Hazrat Inayat Khan. His legacy lives on in all he set in motion.
— Kabir Helminski, Co-Director of The Threshold Society, translator of Rumi, author of The Knowing Heart and The Mysterion
Murshid Sam was a prophet, a rascal, a sage, an unfettered lover of the Divine, and one of the greatest spiritual masters of the twentieth century. He reconciled traditionally polarized religions in his own fiery and generous heart, offering us a path to union that both transcends and welcomes the living wisdom at the root of all the world’s great mystical transmissions.
— Mirabai Starr, author of God of Love and Wild Mercy
Be amazed by the God story of this wondrous American saint. His life is the kernel of American spirituality—fresh bread, clear water, new wine, intoxicating honey shared among heart companions and offered to the soul of the world. This food will transform us into who we truly are.
— Shaykha Fariha Fatima al Jerrahi
It is a blessing to have this comprehensive biography of the Sufi master, modern mystic and beloved teacher Samuel Lewis. Murshid Sam’s life invites us to join in the dance of mystics and sages.
— Jack Kornfield, author of A Path with Heart
As Rumi reminds us of the ecstatic heart of mysticism, and Jesus danced with his disciples (as recorded in The Gospel of Thomas), so Samuel Lewis brought embodied ecstasy through his transmission.
— Coleman Barks, editor and translator of Essential Rumi