A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam (P/B)

A lengthy process, rich in remarkable and thought-provoking events, including compelling encounters with Islamic philosophy, led the author to embrace Islam. His experiences since that time – such as his pilgrimages to Makkah – further deepened his understanding of, and identification with, this “fastest growing religion in Europe.” This “Diary” is, however, much more than a recorded soliloquy. It is a lively introduction to Islam as such – developed in the spiritual confrontation of a Muslim intellectual of European background with the ideology and value system of post-industrial western society.

This work is a translation of Shaikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz’s book ‘Ad-Duroos Al-Muhimmah li-Ammatil-Ummah.’ It contains concise lessons that explain the fundamental teachings of Islam. This book covers a wide range of basic information such as the meaning of Tawhid (Islamic monotheism), the categories and implications of Shirk (polytheism), the regulations of prayer, and Islamic morals and manners. As the title implies, these are truly essential lessons for everyone who is concerned with the correctness of his Islamic beliefs and acts of worship.

Some thinkers has said, ‘A smattering of knowledge turns people away from God. Grater knowledge brings  them back to Him’. The author concludes in this book by examining various theories that the choice humanity have is not between the universe with God and the universe with God and the  universe without God. The real option is between the universe with God and no universe at all. Therefore humanity is compelled to opt for the proposition the universe with God. Hence it is logical to say I exist, therefore, God exists.

In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful

Allah (SWT) says: (If you fear that you will not be able to deal justly with the orphans, marry women of your choice, two or three or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one or (the captives or the slaves) that your right hands possess. That will be more suitable to prevent you from doing injustice) (An-Nisa’: 3).

Praise be to Allah (SWT) who has prescribed for His Servants a religion (Islam) that is beneficial to them in this world and the Hereafter, and Peace and Blessing be upon His Messengers and Prophets who were guided by His Guidance and conveyed His Religion. The last and seal of His Messengers was Muhammad Ibn Abdillah (SAW). He (SAW) was the best to advise his Ummah and convey the True Message, by words, deeds and his character. He (SAW) was the best model and example for the believers.