The author says in the introduction of the second edition, “The overall purpose of this book is to acquaint the reader with the historical factors behind the formulation of Islamic law (Fiqh), in order that he or she may better understand how and why the various schools of Islamic law (Madh-habs) came about. It is hoped that this understanding will in turn, provide a basis for overcoming the petty differences and divisions which occur when present-day followers of different schools of people without definite schools try to work together. Thus, another aim of this book is to provide a theoretical framework for the reunification of the Madhhabs and an ideological basis for Islamic community work free from the divisive effects of Madh-hab factionalism.” The book consists of six chapters: foundation, establishment, building, flowing, consolidation, and stagnation and decline.
Author: Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips
Most people agree to the fact that Allah’s (God’s) Word cannot be contradictory. What He spoke about Himself must be true. He made Himself known as The Creator, The One, The Originator, and The Provider. He is the First, nothing is before Him; The Last, nothing is after Him; The Most High, nothing is above Him; The Most Near, nothing is beyond His reach, and He encompasses everything while He is above heavens, distinct and separate from His creatures. Great in His Majesty and Honor, Most Merciful, Severe in Punishment, All-Knower, Most Compassionate, All-Wise, and All-Just; Most Perfect in all of His Names and Attributes. He does not beget, nor is He begotten. There is no equal to Him, and there is nothing like unto him, and thus He alone deserves to be worshipped. In essence, the religion as revealed1 to nations before us and to mankind up to the Day of Resurrection, calls for the worship of none but God (Allah).
Author: Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
This is a gift for all the new Muslims who currently know the right path to Allah. This is a means to strength and preserve their belief. In this book Sheikh Jamaal al-Din Zarabozo shows the fruits of becoming a Muslim, the excellent features of Islam and all aspects of Islam. Sheikh Jamaal illustrates the pillars of faith on which one’s belief is based and the pillars of Islam which contain the best practical deeds (e.g. prayer) and the best deeds of the heart i.e. the monotheism. As Islam is a social religion, Sheikh explains the Muslim’s behavior towards all individuals in the society, old or young, whether they embrace Islam or not. Afterwards he puts up some notice about both of the permissible and prohibited financial dealings. He also mentions the factors which increase the one’s belief and help the Muslim to abide by Allah’s commands. He refers to the obstacles (e.g. lust, misconception and ignorance) in the path of the Muslims prevent him from continuing his way to Allah. He also shows the prerequisites of the sincere repentance which is between the person and his God without a mediator. Finally, he gives a word for the new Muslim.
Author: Jamaal Zarabozo
An interesting book contains more than eighty means of da'wah in different fields of our life such as da'wah at home, masjed, school and work in addition to various means of da'wah. These books teach us that we should not confine da'wah to masjed but it should far exceed it to include all life's fields. Based on these means of da'wah, we can direct da'wah to everyone by easy ways. We should know that da'wah is a responsibility of every Muslim, the issue which encourages us to use these means efficiently.
Why I Chose Islam: A story of a priest who reverted to Islam, it is based on a True Story.
Author: M. Emery
Publisher: Islamic Propagation Office in Rabwah
This is an important book talks about the sects of Christianity i.e. Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant and Jehovah’s Witness, etc. In addition, it shows the differences and the unifying beliefs among them. It also focuses on the way of Jesus regarding pork, alcohol, polygamy, fasting, interest, greeting, veiling, prostration, ablutions and circumcision. Finally, it gives a chapter about the authorship of the Bible.