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
An summarised text detailing the rules governing the Criticism of Hadeeth. From its introduction -'A hadith (pl. ahadith) is composed of two parts: the matn (text) and the isnad (chain of reporters). A text may seem to be logical and reasonable but it needs an authentic isnad with reliable reporters to be acceptable; 'Abdullah b. al-Mubarak (d. 181 AH) is reported to have said, "The isnad is part of the religion: had it not been for the isnad, whoever wished to would have said whatever he liked." During the lifetime of the Prophet (SAS) and after his death, his Companions (Sahabah) used to refer to him when quoting his sayings. The Successors (Tabi'un) followed suit; some of them used to quote the Prophet (SAS) through the Companions while others would omit the intermediate authority - such a hadith was known as mursal (loose). It was found that the missing link between the Successor and the Prophet (SAS) might be one person, i.e. a Companion, or two persons, the extra person being an older Successor who heard the hadith from the Companion.'
Author: Mahmood Al-Tahaan
A very detailed and beneficial book which highlights the fasting and its history, aims, requirements and types. This is one of the selected materials.
Author: Khalid Aljuraisy
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
Publisher: http://www.alukah.net - Al Alukah Website
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 very useful book contains important information despite its few pages. It shows how to perform the second pillar of Islam i.e. prayer. At first, the author some words from book "The Dispraise of Desire" authored by Ibn Al-Qayyem. Then he talks about some issues pertaining to prayer e.g. meaning of prayer, its merits, its times and conditions should be met before performing it. It is characterized by containing audio sections showing what is said during the prayer.
Author: Dr. Saleh As-Saleh
Reveiwers: Abu Adham Osama Omara
Publisher: http://www.turntoislam.com - Turn to Islam Website
A bewildered Western Truth-Seeker relates his spiritual journey from Christianity to Buddhism until he found the Truth in Islam.
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
Publisher: Islamic call and guidance centre in Abha: www.taweni.com