Here is a Hypothetical to Consider You go to a Flea Market and see an old coin that you purchase for $!0.00. That is the price designated by the vendor and you do not haggle over the price; the vendor is happy to receive full payment. Because of your experience you suspect that it is […]
Dr. Stewart Bitkoff – Author
A spiritual traveler & student of Sufi Mysticism & the perennial philosophy; he specialized in the healing applications of therapeutic recreation & psychiatric rehabilitation.
NEW! The World of Pond Stories
This introductory book in Dr. Bitkoff's new series will take you on a trip to a wondrous land where magical animals explore and work as one to solve problems.
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Light on The Mountain
This captivating tale parallels challenges of modern society where wars rage with elusive terrorists, millions are homeless and malnourished and the rich amass fortune. This book is a must read for a remedy to these age-old problems. TO PURCHASE: Click the image
The Appleseed Journal
Story chronicles Minister, Johnny Appleseed's travels in 1843 when he mysteriously went missing. No historical record, it’s rumored Hudson Valley, NY is where he planted a message to be harvested by spiritual travelers today. TO PURCHASE: click this image
Wins 4th Place – Book of the Year
Receiving 4th place by 'ForeWord Magazine,' Adult Non Fiction Religious Book of the Year, it's a must read. Offering a rare glimpse into the true path of "knowing." TO PURCHASE: Click the Image
Radio Appearance – Listen Now
Dr. Bitkoff shares his spiritual experiences & teachings as a practicing Sufi in the U.S. & speaks to his book The Appleseed Journal. TO LISTEN: click the picture link
“The Ferryman’s Dream” and other works by Dr. Stewart Bitkoff
by stewart
I am sharing this Facebook piece by fellow spiritual traveler, Gordon Rumson. From time to time, Gordon shares the work of different artists and in this piece shares his view of some of my work.
“The Ferryman’s Dream” and other works by Dr. Stewart Bitkoff
Having read this book several times, I think I can safely say it is a masterpiece in a rare form: the tale of gradual enlightenment for a modern reader. Poetic and specific by turns, the book is a prose poem.
Dr. Bitkoff has written numerous books drawing on his experience with a Sufi group. Now, for many this automatically mean Islam, and this may offend some. Let neither Muslim or non-Muslim be offended. He wrote recently: “I am neither Christian, Jew or Muslim. Nor do I follow any of the other 200 or so religions available on this planet…I am a spiritual traveler going from world to world reflecting the Light of Creation..” In this Dr. Bitkoff is following the explicit teachings of the 13th century Sufi saint Rumi. (Please take issue with Rumi if you must).
“Sufism for the Western Seeker” is also very interesting and important, as it is so specific and detailed. In comparison with most New Age manuals of spiritual self help, those books are often like “Billy Nye the Science Guy” (btw, not a small matter) and Dr. Bitkoff’s more like a Master’s degree in Chemistry.
Other books of his include:
The World of Pond Stories (Aesop’s fables for the modern world)
The Appleseed Journal
Beyond the River’s Gate
A Commuter’s Guide to Enlightenment
Light On The Mountain
Journey of Light Trilogy
Sometimes Dr. Bitkoff skirts the sound of a New Age teacher, but more often in his books, provides clear detail, open explanation and honest appraisal for complicated matters, such as how to learn, the pitfalls of the Path, specific techniques for mental development, and the hopes for the end of the Journey.
I do not fully share Dr. Bitkoff’s beliefs (I feel his cosmology veers too close to Al-Ghazali’s occasionalism and I am not fond of New Age Messianic eschatology) and I know that many people will distrust ANYONE who offers spiritual advice. But, I think that Dr. Bitkoff’s books are well worth reading and his ideas well worth considering.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I have been in contact with Dr. Bitkoff for almost a decade, he has graciously answered my questions, offered good advice, berated me when needed and ignored me in the best manner of the Sufi dictum: the best answer to a fool is silence. For all that I give him my thanks.
Gordon Rumson: https://www.facebook.com/gordon.rumson
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