A discussion of the obligation of keeping a beard and a clarification of some common misconceptions.
Author: Muhammad al-Jibaly
Publisher: Al-Kitaab & as-Sunnah Publishing
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1231
An Excellent Gift to Students of Islamic Sciences Literally translated 'The Fundamental Principles of Qur'aanic Interpretation,' this book refers to the branches of knowledge which are necessary to provide an accurate interpretation of the Qur'anic texts, such as Arabic grammar and syntax, Arabic literature and Qur'anic sciences ('uloom al-Qur'aan). Addressed topics include the Tafseer of the Qur'an, books of tafseer, translations of the Qur'an, Wahy ('divine revelation'), reasons for revelation, the differences between Makkan and Madinan revelations, Naskh, the Muhkam and Mutashaabih, and more.
Author: Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips
There has been much misinformation about the people of Saudi Arabia in Western media; some may be due to Islamophobia, but some come from the difficulty in getting an accurate picture of the Kingdom's diversity from the outside. Saudi woman was no exception. This books demonstrates the achievements been made by Saudi woman despite the difficulties facing them. It highlights the roles being played by educated Saudi women and the government efforts to change negative attitudes towards women. While reflecting the emerging role of Saudi women who have been marginalized by rigid traditions and restricted misinterpretation of Islamic law, the book stresses that the active roles of Saudi woman, at both domestic and international levels, has dispelled long-held stereotypes of these women as being uneducated and dull.
The book begins with a discussion of the sacred nature of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, the boundaries of the Haram (Sanctuary) and its sanctity. Then it discusses the superiority of Makkah and narrates Ahadith to that effect. Then it mentions the names of Makkah and the significance of these names. This book also speaks of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma'il (Ishmael) (peace be upon them) and their connection to Makkah and its sanctity and development.
A compilation of five works dealing with fasting, Taraaweeh, I'tikaaf, Zakaat-ul-Fitr, and Eid.
Author: Muhammad Salih Al-Munajjid
Publisher: Islamic Propagation Office in Rabwah
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1351
This book was prepared by a group of Saudi scholars and intellectuals. They address Western mind which looks at fair truth and objective and convincing dialogue. The book, in general, discusses the most important issues and suspicions raised by Western political and media organizations in the aftermath of September 11, 2001 events. These events have placed Islam, the Kingdom, its people, and its religious, educational and social institutions in a position that requires correction and review. The book is a moderate vision in responding to the issues and suspicions. A biased reader would notice the major difference between the reality and the raised concepts and images which were far from the reality.