Especially selected for the Western reader by the renowned Islamic scholar Tabataba'i, a collection of sayings, sermons, prayers and writings that represent cross section of Shi'ite religious thought with an emphasis upon the principles and fundamentals (usul) of Islam, the passages from the traditions shed light on three basic dimensions of Shi'ite tradition: 1. The Unity of God 2. The political, social and moral teachings and 3. The spiritual life.

Translated by William Chittick, and Introduction by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.