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
Undoubtedly, the heart leans towards those who are kind and gentle. It was said a long time ago: "Make your face happy and your words gentle, and you will be more beloved to the people than those who give them a gift". The one calling to the religion of Islam and dealing with other people has the utmost need to gather the people around him, and cause their hearts to lean towards him so that they will listen to him. Adorning himself with kindness and gentleness helps to achieve that goal with the grace of Allah.
Praying 'Eid in the Musallaa is the Sunnah: there is great and profound wisdom behind this Sunnah – the Sunnah of praying in an open area of land. And it is that: The Muslims will have two days of the year where all the people of every city can gather together – whether men, women or children - and turn towards Allaah with their hearts in unity, praying behind one Imaam, making the Takbeer, the Tahleel and supplicating to Allaah sincerely together, as if they were united upon the heart of one man, happy and joyous about the blessing Allaah has bestowed on them. So the Eid will truly be an occasion of celebration for them.
Author: Muhammad Naasiruddeen al-Albaanee
Translators: Abu Maryam Ismaeel Alarcon
Eid Etiquette and Rulings
Author: Muhammad Salih Al-Munajjid
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1233
Jesus and Christianity In the Perspective of Islam: This book guides those who misunderstood the teachings of Jesus and Christianity in the Perspective of Islam.
Publisher: Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Da‘wah and Guidance
Dr. Saleh As-Saleh said in the beginning of the book, "We hear nowadays a strange call by organized groups involving some Christians, Jews, and “Muslim” intellectuals calling for “wihdatul adyaan”. They claim that these three religions stand for the same belief that there is One God and should unite in their call for the implementation of great moral values. Some of those involved call for the establishment of centers containing churches, synagogues, and masaajid side by side, and printing the Qur’an, the Bible, and the Torah in one binding, etc. In the name of defending Islam against political and media distortions in the West, some organizations are compromising the basics of the Islamic creed through what is called “Bridging the Faiths.” This is a very dangerous call because it mixes the truth with falsehood and thus practically implies the elimination of the truth perfected in the deen of Islam. The Christians and Jews want the Muslims to be like them. That is why they support this deceptive call for “unity”.
Author: Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
Publisher: http://understand-islam.net - Understand Islam Website