The Key to Inner Secrets and the Treasure of Provisions

The History

Just over 500 years ago, the eminent Shaykh Abu Bakr bin Salim wrote his first treatise, “Miftah al-Sara'ir wa-Kanz al-Dhakha'ir,” which is translated here as The Key to Inner Secrets and the Treasure of Provisions. This work is often recommended as the first book that a spiritual seeker should read to learn about the metaphysical path to God.

The Manuscripts

For the first time, this precious work is being published as a bilingual critical edition and translation based on the earliest manuscripts still known to exist, including copies preserved in Hadramawt, Türkiye, India, Iran, and Morocco. It combines a lucid English translation of the text with extensive notes, including commentary drawn from the oral teachings of one of the author's most prominent descendants, Habib Umar Bin Hafiz (b. 1383 AH / 1963 CE).

Courtesy of the 'Allal al-Fasi Foundation Library for The Key to Inner Secrets Critical Edition

Emanating from 'Inat

Famed for his incomparable stature and generosity, Shaykh Abu Bakr bin Salim's presence (919 – 992 AH / 1513 – 1583 CE) attracted a multitude to the Hadrami town of 'Inat in the Arabian Peninsula, even from places as far away as Anatolia and North Africa. This book introduces the reader to a vibrant and living tradition of Islamic spirituality, emanating from the valley of Hadramawt, with a global reach and influence far beyond.

This special hardcover edition includes: