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
Ibn Katheer, At-Tabari, As-Syooti and Other Historians. The four Rightly guided Caliphs (Khaliph's) Abu Bakr As-Sideeq, Umar ibn Al-Khattaab, Uthmaan Ibn 'Affaan and Ali Ibn Abi Taalib. The Biography of Umar Ibn Abdel-Azeez who is regarded as one of the Rightly Guided Chaliphs is also included in this book.
Author: Imam Ibn Kathir
A very important book talks about some misconceptions about Islam such as: 1- Polygamy. 2- Women are oppressed by Islam. 3- Double standard in marriage. 4- Divorce is easy in islam. 5- Divorce is only the man’s right. 6- Hijab. 7- Double standard in inheritance. 8- Two women are equal oto one man. 9- Islam was spread by sword.
An advice and admonition to Muslim sisters about Hijab.
Author: Nawaal Bint Abdullah
Translators: Abdul Qaadir Abdul Khaaliq
Publisher: Islamic Propagation Office in Rabwah
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1325
The author said in the introduction, “I write this book to invite people to the religion of Allaah … I briefly explained herein the story of the creation of the Universe, the creation of man and how he was favoured by sending Messengers to him and situation of past religions. I afterwards made an introduction to Islaam as per its meaning and pillars. So, whoever is looking for guidance will find its evidences therein, whoever is looking for salvation may find that I have explained the way to it in this book, whoever desires to follow the track of the Prophets, Messengers and righteous people will find their path herein while those who turn away from their way only befools themselves and take to the straying path. It is a matter of fact that adherents of each religion call others to it and believe that truth only abide in their religion … Thousands of those who embraced Islaam have testified that they did not know real life until after they embraced Islaam and that they did never tasted happiness except under the shade of Islaam. Since it is a fact that every human being looks for happiness, peace of mind and truth, I prepare this work to help them achieve that. I pray that Allaah makes this work purely for His sake and let it be well-accepted and make it one of those righteous deeds that will benefit its doer in this world and the next.”
Author: Muhammad ibn Abdullah as-Saheem
Translators: AbdulRafe Adyoyl Emam
Publisher: A website Islamic Library www.islamicbook.ws
Concise examination of the Christian texts as well as the Islamic perspective of the purpose and message of Jesus
Author: Rashaad Abdul-Muhaiman
Publisher: El-Haqq Islamic Resource Center
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1367