Perfumed Scorpion »

As the urgency of our global situation becomes apparent, more and more readers are turning to the books of Idries Shah (1924-1996) as a way to train new capacities and new ways of thinking.

Shah has been described as "the most significant worker adapting classical spiritual thought to the modern world." His lively, contemporary books have sold over 15 million copies in 12 languages worldwide and have been awarded many prizes. They have been reviewed by The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Times, The Tribune, The Telegraph, and numerous other international journals and newspapers.

Whoever might perfume a scorpion
Will not thereby escape its sting.
— Sufi master, Bahaudin Naqshband


Using the powerful approach of classical teachers, Shah has crafted a contemporary teaching tool that blends a fast-paced look at today's world with the timeless teachings of the Sufis.

The book brings into sharp focus the conditioned behavior and self-deception that are common in Western minds.

Far more than a literary tool for breaking loose old mental habits, it is a blueprint for a process of self-development that precludes self-deceit.

Truly a book among books, A Perfumed Scorpion is treasured the world over for its clarity of wisdom and the forcefulness of insight.

Books and Bookmen

... an invigorating and abrasive book, like jumping into icy water - hard to do, but you're glad you have done it.