Manliness that isn't gruffness
What does it mean for a Muslim man to have a personality that is in accordance with Islamic guidelines? In 44 Ways to Manhood: Breaking Old Habits and Building New Personalities Based on the Qur'an, Taymullah Abdur-Rahman presents 44 principles, based on the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah, that Muslim men need to implement in their lives.
What the 44 principles cover
Some of the principles are essentials: sincerity, knowledge of Tawheed and fiqh, excellent manners, good hygiene, and consistent worship. Others are practical, everyday guidelines — memorizing some Qur'an daily, staying in good physical shape, being tolerant, honoring women, fulfilling promises and debts, giving gifts, and respecting leadership.
What the author is arguing against
The author demonstrates that, contrary to popular opinion, manliness in Muslim men does not mean being gruff and harsh. He emphasizes that when implemented correctly, these 44 points will, in sha' Allah, safeguard a Muslim man from everything that does not benefit him, his religion, and his Hereafter — a useful resource for Muslim men of all ages, as well as for study circles and family discussions.
About the Author
Taymullah Abdur-Rahman received a diploma in Islamic Studies from the Saudi Arabian Council of Senior Scholars in 2006. Since 2003, he has served as interim imam at numerous mosques, as chaplain for the Massachusetts Department of Correction, and as a Northeastern University spiritual advisor. He is currently the Muslim chaplain for Harvard University, where he also teaches a graduate course on Islam at Harvard Divinity School, and is a social justice advocate and family pastoral care provider.
