There is an overwhelming demand for information about Islam and remarkably little that is comprehensive, authentic and readable at the same time. This book attempts all three.
The Foundations
It takes the reader through well-known authentic sources and looks closely at the Islamic faith, the Noble Qur'an, the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and his sayings. It explores the Five Pillars in depth and narrates the Prophet's ﷺ biography briefly but distinctly.
Throughout, the stress falls on Tawhid — Islam's central belief in the Oneness of Allah — and there is an extended discussion of the Glorious Qur'an as the revealed Book.
The Questions People Actually Ask
This is where the book goes further than most introductions. Rather than confining itself to doctrine, it gives succinct, accessible and clear answers on the specific issues that come up:
What is the status of women in Islam — are they second-class citizens, and who is superior, man or woman? What is jihad? What does Islam say about abortion, euthanasia, inter-religious marriage and suicide? A man's treatment of his wife, polygyny, divorce, dress and the veil. The rights of parents, privacy in the home, clothing and ornaments, the wisdom behind prohibiting gold and silk for men, and perfumes. The alleged cruelty toward animals. Lawful and unlawful foods.
Answering these rather than avoiding them is the difference between a book that corrects a misconception and one that leaves it in place while talking about something else.
Who It Is For
Non-Muslims wanting a real introduction rather than a leaflet — carefully researched, comprehensive and still readable. Newly converted Muslims, for whom it holds profound insights of considerable value. Da'wah workers and libraries.
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