The book is divided into two main parts:
For centuries, a complete English version of this text was virtually non-existent. However, recent scholarly and occult interest has led to several notable releases:
This article provides the definitive guide to the Shams al-Maarif , its translation status, and what you should know before you search for a digital copy. Shams Al-maarif English Translation Pdf
Several Western esoteric authors have produced books that act as "keys" to the Shams. While not a direct translation, these are the closest you can get in English:
Until then, treat any website promising a free with the highest skepticism. The Sun of Knowledge is powerful, but in the digital wilderness, most of what glitters is fool's gold. The book is divided into two main parts:
(2021), this is the most professional English edition available. It covers roughly 300 pages of the most significant sections, including the mysteries of letters, astrological timings, and the "Ring of Solomon". Shams al-Ma'arif: Talismans and Magic Squares
There is a common misconception among digital seekers that a full, scholarly English translation of the entire work exists as a readily downloadable PDF. The reality is more complex. While not a direct translation, these are the
Al-Buni was a scholar of the Shafi’i school of jurisprudence and a practitioner of Sufism. He did not view magic as something contrary to religion, but rather as a deeper understanding of the Quran and the names of God. The book is titled "The Sun of Great Knowledge" because it intends to illuminate the hidden mechanics of the universe.
If you are searching for a reliable English version to study, consider these recognized publications:
: A 2023 translation by Johann Voldemont that focuses specifically on the book's geometric and talismanic aspects. Academic Summaries & Fragments : Various academic sites like
However, there are highly respected that cover significant portions of the work: