The book contains intricate diagrams and squares (Wafq). The most famous is the "Great Square of 64," associated with the Throne of God. Each square corresponds to a planet (Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Sun, Venus, Mercury, Moon) and specific hours of the day.
In many parts of the Islamic world, the book is feared as a source of black magic or shirk (idolatry). Shams al-Ma'arif - The Most Dangerous Book in the World? kitab syam maarif
Al-Buni expands on the mystical belief that the Arabic alphabet carries cosmic vibrations. He assigns numerical values (Abjad) to each letter. By rearranging the names of God or Quranic verses, the practitioner can supposedly harness specific energies. The book contains intricate diagrams and squares (Wafq)
While its reputation often leans toward the mysterious and forbidden, the text is deeply rooted in the concept of Ilm al-Huroof (the Science of Letters). Al-Buni believed that the universe was constructed through the divine word of God, and therefore, the Arabic alphabet contains hidden powers and numerical values (Abjad) that can be harnessed for spiritual and worldly purposes. In many parts of the Islamic world, the
In the rich tapestry of Nusantara (Southeast Asian) Islamic scholarship, certain texts transcend the boundaries of standard religious education. While works on Fiqh (jurisprudence) and Tawhid (monotheism) provide the foundations of faith, there exists a genre of literature that addresses the spiritual, the mystical, and the esoteric needs of the people. Among these, few names evoke as much reverence, curiosity, and authoritative weight as .
This article explores the history, content, controversies, and modern accessibility of the Kitab Syam Maarif .