Sexuality and Islamic Spirituality in Early Malay Writings

It is argued here that before the extensive formalization of sharia laws from the late nineteenth century onwards, Islam was prominently influenced by elements of enchantment and mysticism, mirrored in its textual portrayal of passionate and sexual relations.

This book''s analysis is based on Malay manuscripts and texts about the body, sex, and sexuality. These include religious guidebooks on sexua...