Book Review: Fadhl Ahli-Bayt wa ‘Uloowi Makaanatihim

With the recent attack of the Shee’ah on Ahlu-Sunnah in Dammaaj, Yemen, I decided to contribute in my own personal intellectual Jihaad against this sect of Islam and provide sound and authentic information on literary works written by the scholars clarifying their creed and deviant beliefs. I had purchased an excellent treatise by the Muhaddith of Madeenah, ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-Muhsin al-‘Abbaad entitled Fadhl Ahli-Bayt wa ‘Uloowi Makaanatihim ‘inda Ahlis-Sunnati-wal-Jamaa’ah, printed by Daar Ibn al-Atheer in Riyadh.

This 87 page treatise is divided into ten sections covering the correct Islamic meaning regarding Ahl-Bayt (literally the Family of the House, meaning the Prophetic household). Here is a quick translation of those sections:

Section One: Who are Ahlu-Bayt?

Section Two: A Brief Summary of the Creed of the People of the Sunnah and Muslims concerning Ahlu-Bayt

Section Three: The Excellent Qualities of Ahlu-Bayt as mentioned in the Noble Quran

Section Four: The Excellent Qualities of Ahlu-Bayt as mentioned in the purified Sunnah

Section Five: The High Stature of Ahlu-Bayt amongst the Companions and those who practiced Islam as they did

Section Six: The Praise of some of the People of Knowledge for the Companions who were from Ahlu-Bayt

Section Seven: The Praise of some of the People of Knowledge for a group of the female Companions who were from Ahlu-Bayt

Section Eight: The Praise of some of the People of Knowledge amongst the Tabee’oon (the Successors who were the students of the Companions) and others from Ahlu-Bayt

Section Nine: A Comparison between the Creed of Ahlus-Sunnah and the Creed of others concerning Ahlu-Bayt

Section Ten: The Prohibition of Ascribing to the Ahlu-Bayt without proof

This excellent work of the Shaykh reminds me of a shorter version of the exhaustive and excellent book as-Saheeh-ul-Musnad min Fadhaaili Ahli Bayt-in-Nubuwwah (The Authentic Narrations regarding the Noble Traits of the Family of the Prophetic Household) Written by Umm Shua’yb al-Waad’iyyah (hafithahaallah) the wife of the late Muhaddith of Yemen, ash-Shaykh Muqbil bin Haadee (rahimahullah). You can read my book review here and you can download the whole book in Arabic here.

With that said here are several more links to books in Arabic that cover in detail the deviant creed and beliefs of the Shee’ah.

This link is the Shaykh Muqbil’s al-Ilhaad al-Khomeini fee Ardhil-Haramayn where the Shaykh refutes the statements of Ayatollah Khomeni in detail.

Here is a link to a knowledge-based refutation of the Shee’ah by Dr. Ihsan Ilahi Thaahir, may Allah have mercy upon him.

This is a link to the book of Dr. Musaa al-Musawee who was once from the Shee’ah. He wrote many books against them, this one in particular is very enlightening.

And here is a blog that refutes the Shee’ah. And Allah knows best.

Book Review: Wa Jaadilhum bi-Latee hiyaa Ahsan

Wa Jaadilhum bi-Latee hiyaa Ahsan
Written by Bandar bin Nayf al-'Utaybee
No publisher listed
Seventh Printing
Pages: 78

There are some Muslims today who cast doubts regarding the legitimacy of the Saudi government and attack its rulers and its scholars. This particular book focuses on18 doubts along with knowledge-based responses to each claim. The responses are taken from the works of the late Mufti ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz and the late scholar of the Qaseem region and member of the Committee of Major Scholars, Muhammad bin Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon them both.

The title of the book is taken from the Quranic verse, {And debate with them in a manner which is best.} The author Bandar bin Nayf al-‘Utaybee brings a beneficial introduction concerning the issue of Takfeer (declaring a Muslim a disbeliever) and overthrowing the Muslim ruler.

I was enlightened by the responses to many of the doubts that are commonly heard amongst ignorant Muslims throughout the Muslims and non-Muslim world. For example, light is shed concerning the issue surrounding the residency of non-Muslims in the Arabian Peninsula. Many Jihadis and Takfeeris use the religion as a basis to carry out violent attacks against non-Muslims and Muslims alike. The author brings the statements of the two aforementioned scholars derived from the Quran and the Ahadeeth that prove the illegitimacy of their allegations and the corruption and evil of their actions.

The book has written recommendations from ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-Muhsin bin Naasir Aali ‘Ubaykaan, member of the Consultation Committee for the Ministry of Justice, and ash-Shaykh Muhammad bin Hasan bin ‘Abdur-Rahmaan Aali ash-Shaykh, member of the Permanent Committee and Committee of Major Scholars.

Book Review: Two Books on the Tableegh

Al-Mujiz al-Baleegh fee at-Tahdheer min Firqat-it-Tableegh
Collected and prepared by ‘Abdullah bin Mubaarak al-Qahtaanee
Printed by Daar-as-Sami’ee
Pages 61

This is a small compilation concerning the origin, creed, methodology, and personalities of the Jamaa’at-ut-Tableegh. The book is praised by ash-Shaykh al-‘Allaamah Muhammad bin Muslim Aali ‘Uthaymeen who writes a recommendation. The author also includes rulings from members of the Major Scholars in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia concerning this group. I translated several sections of this book years ago in which the translated sections appeared on the site Salafyink, so whoever wants can refer to those translated sections.

Kashf-us-Sattaar ‘ammaa Tahmiluhu ba’dha ad-Da’waat min Akhtaar
Written by Muhammad bin Naasir al-‘Uraynee
Printed by: (Not listed)
Pages 112

This is another excellent treatise containing the rulings of many scholars concerning the errors and beliefs of the Tableegh. Scholars such as the late Muftis of Saudi Arabia, ash-Shaykh Muhammad bin Ibraaheem Aali ash-Shaykh and ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin Baaz, members of the Committee of Major Scholars in Saudi Arabia such as ash-Shaykh Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen, ash-Shaykh ‘Abdur-Razaaq al-‘Afeefee, Dr. Saalih bin ‘Abdur-Rahmaan al-Atram, Dr. Saalih al-Fawzaan, the Muhaddith of ash-Shaam ash-Shaykh Muhammad Naasir-ud-Deen al-Albaanee, some of the Mashaayikh of Riyadh like ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-‘Azeez ar-Raajihee (who I have been blessed to meet at Jaami' Raajihi when he gave a Dars there) and ash-Shaykh Hamood at-Tuwayjiree, the Muhaddith of Yemen ash-Shaykh Muqbil bin Haadee al-Waadi’ee, and many many others.

There is a foreword by our Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan recommending the book. The author has gone to lengths to write very little and instead present the knowledge-based rulings of the Scholars concerning the Tableegh.

Book Review: Qatf al-Janaa ad-Daanee

Qatf al-Janaa ad-Daanee Sharh Muqaddimah Risaalah Ibn Abee Zayd al-Qayrawaanee
By: ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-Muhsin Hamad al-‘Abbaad al-Badr
Printed by: Daar al-Aaathaar
Hardback
Pages: 184

The Muhaddith of Madinah, ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-Muhsin al-‘Abbaad, may Allah protect him from every evil and harm, explains Ibn Abee Zayd’s classical text on ‘Aqeedah. The text itself is part of a bigger work of Aboo ‘Abdullah Aboo Muhammad bin Abee Zayd from al-Qayrawaan(died in 386 A.H.) entitled ar-Risaalah al-Fiqihiyyah. Ibn Zayd was the Imam of the Maalakiyyah of his time and known as Maalik Sagheer (the little Imam Maalik).

Shaykh ‘Abdul-Muhsin gives an introduction, a short biography of the author, and then ten points concerning the creed of the four Imams and answers some doubts of the ‘Ashaairah and other deviant sects. Interestingly, a lot of what we hear Hamza Yusuf, Zaid Shaakir, and Suhaib Webb propagating in the name of the ‘Asharees there in the West is dismantled in the Shaykh’s knowledge-based points. Then after this the Shaykh includes ash-Shaykh Ahmad bin Musharraf al-Ahsaa’ee al-Maalikee’s (died in 1285 A.H.) poem form of the text. The full text is also included as reference.

The Shaykh’s explanation is conveyed in simple Arabic and could be benefited by student of knowledge or layperson. May Allah reward the Shaykh for clarifying the creed of the Salaf. The printing ends with a detailed index of the entire book.

While the font is nice and the layout is good the quality of the book is poor. The inside of the binding is falling apart and the book was cut crooked. When I purchased it, I sifted through a stack of them and found all of them to be of poor quality, I actually picked the best looking one. I bought it new from Daar-ut-Tadmurriyyah here in Riyadh.

Book Review: al-Asi’lat-ul-Wasitiyyah ‘alaa al-‘Aqeedah al-Waasitiyyah

al-Asi’lat-ul-Wasitiyyah ‘alaa al-‘Aqeedah al-Waasitiyyah li-Shaykh-il-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah
Paperback
Author: Dr. Khaalid Naasir bin Sa’eed Aali Husayn
Pages: 72

This is an excellent question and answer format of Ibn Taymiyyah’s al-‘Aqeedah al-Waasitiyyah. The author Dr. Khaalid Naasir bin Sa’eed Aali Husayn is a member of the Teaching Organization in the Islamic University of Muhammad bin Sa’ood in the Department of Usool-ud-Deen in Riyadh. He has compiled the text into 88 questions and answers. The style of Arabic is simple and the printing is of high quality.

Each section of the text is highlighted in black bold font, and the questions are in red. There is an index of the questions at the end of the book and a second index of the topics.

Book Review: Tadhkeer an-Naabiheen

Tadhkeer an-Naabiheen
Author: Rabee’ bin Haadee al-Madkhalee
Publisher: Majaalis al-Hudaa
Pages: 496

If you like biographies of the scholars, then without a doubt you will enjoy this work. The former head of the Sunnah department of the Islamic University of Madeenah, Dr. Rabee’ bin Haadee al-Madkhalee, put together a short yet beneficial biography of over 111 scholars beginning with Ibn al-Mundhir who died in 318 A.H. to Muqbil ibn Haadee al-Waadi’ee who died in 1422 A.H.

Dr. Rabee’ gives an insightful introduction covering the knowledge of the Ahlul-Hadeeth (the People of the Prophetic narrations) and their importance. The book contains an index as well as an index of all the Ahaadeeth that appear in the text.

Book Review: Majmoo’at-ut-Tawheed

Knowledge-based from beginning to end, this is the well-known Majmoo’at-ut-Tawheed an-Najdiyyah, a compilation of treatises focusing on Tawheed. The majority are written by Shaykh-ul-Islaam Muhammad ibn ‘Abdil-Wahhaab, may Allah have mercy upon him, but there are also others written by the Shaykh’s grandsons as well as other scholars of an-Najd.

All of the short treatises are included such as Kitaab-ut-Tawheed, Kashf-ush-Shubuhaat, Tafseer Kalimat-it-Tawheed, Thalaath Masaail, Fee Talqeen Usool al-‘Aqeedah lil-‘Awaam, and other treatises of the Shaykh on prayer, Tafseer, and Manhaj.

This collection is a popular print that can be found at many used bookstores in Riyadh and I have even see it in some of the retail bookstores such as al-‘Ubaykaan and Jareer. It was first printed by King ‘Abdul-‘Azeez and then printed again by order of King Fahd, may Allah have mercy on them both.

This printing is hard back and has 636 pages. It is of high quality and only cost me 15 Riyals. I do not see the name of any printer or company responsible for its printing.

Book Review: as-Salaah khalfa al-Malakiyyah

Al-Masa’lah al-Khilaafiyyah fee as-Salaati khalfa al-Malakiyyah
Written by Ahmad bin ‘Abdul-Haleem bin Taymiyyah
Published by Daar al-Imaam Ahmad
Pages: 55

Shaykh-ul-Islaam, Ibn Taymiyyah (661 – 728 A.H.), may Allah have mercy upon him, wrote a short and knowledge-based response to those who hold that prayer behind one who follows the Fiqh opinions of Imam Maalik is not valid and that whoever prays behind one, his prayer is incorrect. The foreword is written by Dr. Muhammad ‘Ali Firkoos, Professor of the college of Islamic Sciences in the University of Algeria. The Verifier and Commentator Shaykh ‘Abdur-Rahmaan ‘Abdul-Majeed Jumu’ah al-Jazaairee, gives an enlightening introduction, proof that the text was written by Ibn Taymiyyah, and provides manuscript copies of the text. His verification and notes are extremely detailed and sound against those who hold this strange view.

Book Review: The Kabaair Texts

It is very important for Muslims and non-Muslims alike to understand the Islamic concept of sin and their levels. The early and later scholars wrote many books on sin and focused on explaining them to the Muslims so that they may avoid them or repent from them.

The following is my review of two well-known texts that focus on al-Kabaair or the Major Sins of Islam.

Kitaab-ul-Kabaair written by al-Haafith Abee ‘Abdillah Muhammad bin Ahmad bin ‘Uthmaan adh-Dhahabee

This work has been published by many book publishers and can easily be found online and available in PDF form. I literally had to sift through several printings at the used bookstore so I won’t go into the copy I have just some basic info on the text. This text was written by al-Haafith adh-Dhahabee who was born in 674 A.H. and died in 738 A.H. Imam adh-Dhahabee lists 76 major sins in Islam with evidences from the Quran, the statements of the Prophet, peace be upon him, and some statements of the companions and people of knowledge. This printing as most of the others I noticed contain verifications, introductions, footnotes, copies of the original manuscripts, and indexes.


The second work is from Shaykh-ul-Islam Muhammad bin ‘Abdul-Wahhaab entitled al-Kabaair. My copy was printed for free distribution by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in hardback form. The Shaykh lists 125 major sins. He titles the section and gives the proof from the Quran and the narrations of the Prophet, peace be upon him. This copy was verified and checked by Dr. Baasim Faysal al-Jawaabirah, professor of Hadeeth and Usool-ud-Deen in Riyadh. A concise biography of the Shaykh is given along with a detailed index of the subject matter.

The other Kabaair text that I know of is Ibn Hajar al-Haythamee’s al-Kabaair, but I do not have a copy of it in published form. Nuh Hah Meem Keller included it in his translation of Reliance of the Traveler where he translated it and paired it side-by-side with the Arabic text, so whoever wants to refer to it can do so.

Book Review: Sunan ad-Daarimee

Sunan ad-Daarimee
Author al-Imam ad-Daarimee
Verification by Dr. Mustafaa Deeb al-Baghaa
2 Volumes
Published by Daar al-Qalam Damascus

The Sunan of ad-Daarimee is considered one of the nine books of Hadeeth collections of the statements and actions of the Prophet, peace be upon him. It is also known as Musnad ad-Daarimee written by Aboo Muhammad ‘Abdullah bin ‘Abdir-Rahmaan bin al-Fadhl bin Bahraam bin ‘Abdus-Samad at-Tameemee ad-Daarimee born in the year 181 A.H. and died in Samarqand (in modern day Uzbekistan) in the year 255 A.H. He was 74 years old.


Many scholars of Haadeeth have narrated from him such as al-Bukhaaree in other writings than his Saheeh, Aboo Daawud, ar-Tirmidhee, an-Nisaa’ee, Imam Ahmad, and others. Imam Muslim collected 73 narrations from him in his Saheeh.

Imam ad-Daarimee divided his Sunan into 23 sections known as Kitaab, and then added topics concerning the section. His introduction to the Sunan contains very important statements of the Salaf concerning seeking knowledge.

This printing is of good quality and contains an introduction by the verifier, a short biography, copies of the manuscripts used, and a detailed index. The only problem I have with this printing is that there are no vowel signs on the narrations. There is another printing of the Sunan by Daar-ul-Mughnee in Riyadh with a verification by Husayn Saleem Asad ad-Daaraanee, where the narrations are fully voweled. I have it in PDF format but have not been able to find it in the used bookstores here in Riyadh.

Book Review: al-Jaami' li-Khutabi 'Arafah

Al-Jaami’ li-Khutabi ‘Arafah
By al-Mufti ‘Abdul-‘Azeez bin ‘Abdillah Aali ash-Shaykh
Printed by Madaar al-Watan
Pages: 284

This is a hardcover book containing all of the sermons given by the current Mufti of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the day of ‘Arafah during Hajj. It covers each sermon he gave from 1402 to 1411 A.H. Every quranic verse and prophetic narration is verified and its source listed with additional notes of benefit from the verifier Baadr bin Muhammad al-Wuhaybee. This book is given out free by the Kingdom, but from time to time people sell these books to the used store outlets where they in turn are sold, as is the case with my copy which I purchased for 11 Saudi Riyals. The book is very nice and of high quality, in addition to side notes of each sermon that appear on the sides for easy reference.

The Mufti, may Allah bless him and reward him, wrote a very beneficial introduction in which he explains the importance of the sermon of ‘Arafah and how the Prophet, peace be upon him addressed his companions, may Allah be pleased with them. He also points out that the Prophet, peace be upon him, is the leader of those who give the 'Arafah sermons, and his Sunnah will always be emulated in preaching to the pilgrims during Hajj.

Book Review: Muhaddhab Kitaab-it-Tawheed

Muhaddhab Kitaab-it-Tawheed
Written by ash-Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan
Summarized by Sa’d ‘Abdur-Rahmaan al-Husayn
Printed by Daar Ibn Hazm
Pages 115

This is a paperback booklet that summarizes points of benefit from Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan’s bigger book entitled Kittab-ut-Tawheed. The book is divided into four Baab: Tawheed is the basis of the Religion, al-Walaa wal-Baraa, Concerning what is obligatory to adhere to concerning the Messenger, peace be upon him, his household, his companions, and the rulers, and what negates at-Tawheed. Each Baab is then divided into sections that outline each topic.

Book Review: Miftaah al-Hifth li-Tulaab

Miftaah al-Hifth li-Tulaab
Collected and Arranged by Aboo Zakariyaa Salaah-ud-Deen al-Jeebootee
Printed by Daar-ul-Athaar
Pages 80

This is a compilation of 150 small narrations that are found in al-Bukhaaree and Muslim. It was compiled and arranged by a student of Daar-ul-Hadeeth in Dammaaj, Yemen. There is a foreword by ash-Shaykh Yahyaa al-Hajooree with his verification. Each narration is short and easy to memorize. Most of these narrations cover the issues of Imaan, manners, abstinence of the worldly affairs, etc. Without a doubt this is a very beneficial book to have for Hadeeth memorization.

Book Review: Texts used for Shaykh Fawzaan’s class on Tawheed

In the last two posts, we covered the texts that Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan teaches on Saturday and Sunday. On Mondays the Shaykh teaches Tafseer. He doesn’t use any specific text, he just teaches from memory. Tuesday is the Shaykh’s last class and focuses on Tawheed.

Since I have been here, the Shaykh has taught the following three treatises on Tawheed:


One: Tajreed at-Tawheed al-Mufeed by al-Imam al-‘Allaamah Ahmad bin ‘Alee al-Maqreezee (766-845 A.H.) published by Daar ‘Aalam al-Fawaaid consisting of 112 pages. The copy I have has an introduction, a biography, and brief outline of the treatise in addition to a copy of the original manuscript. The text has been verified by ‘Alee bin Muhammad al-‘Imraan using several old manuscripts.

This beneficial treatise focuses on the inner teachings of Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyyah and al-Uloohiyyah. I have come across an excellent translation of it here.


Two: Tatheer-ul-I’tiqaad ‘an Adraan al-Ilhaad, written by al-Imam, Muhammad bin Ismaa’eel as-San’aanee (D. 1182 A.H.), printed by Daar-ut-Tawheed, consisting of 48 pages. This short text covers 5 important principles regarding at-Tawheed, then refutes the claims of the grave worshipers in a question and answer style that Imam as-San’aanee is well known for.

I translated the introduction and 5 principles years ago, but I never completed it. Maybe someone else has done it.


Three: ad-Durrur an-Nadheed fee Ikhlaas Kalimat-it-Tawheed, by al-Imam Muhammad bin ‘Alee ash-Shawkaanee, printed by Daar Ibn Khuzaymah, consisting of 139 pages. The Shaykh just started this text which is another series refuting the grave worshipers and explaining the issues of at-Tawwasul and ash-Shafaa’ah. The Shaykh has given three classes so far and stopped a couple of weeks ago for the summer vacation.

The Shaykh teaches the text and then moves on to the next one after he finishes it. This is one of my favorite classes and made me realize the immense importance of studying and learning Tawheed in a time when many Muslims and non-Muslims alike are distancing themselves from the Creator and faith.

Book Review: Mukhtasar Zaad al-Ma’aad

Mukhtasar Zaad al-Ma’aad fee Hadee Khair-il-‘Ibaad
Author al-Imam Muhammad bin ‘Abdul-Wahhaab
Print by al-Maktabah al-‘Asriyyah
Pages 240

In our last post, we covered the text that Shaykh Fawzaan teaches on Saturday. We will now move on to the next class.

On Sunday, Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan teaches from Mukhtasar Zaad al-Ma’aad. This is an abridged version done by Shaykh-ul-Islam, Muhammad bin ‘Abdul-Wahhaab, may Allah have mercy upon him. He condensed Shaykh-ul-Islam, Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah’s, may Allah have mercy upon him, Zaad-ul-Ma’aad which usually is printed in 4 volumes. My wife had a print of it by Daar-ul-Athaar in Sanaa, Yemen in 2 volumes which she bought from the Salafi bookstore in ‘Ayn Shams, Cairo. The type was kind of small though.

The Shaykh’s Sunday class is a mixture of Seerah and Fiqh. We cover the biography of the Prophet, peace be upon him, while learning the Fiqh aspect of how he applied Islam in his life. The brother who reads on the Shaykh recites the text sort of like in a rhyming poetic form and then the Shaykh will stop him where he wants him to stop and explains the text. The Shaykh always covers the Fiqh aspect of the text and then explains words or difficult vocabulary. He always brings verses of the Quran, statements of the Prophet, peace be upon him, and the statements of the scholars when he speaks. When we covered the Fiqh aspects of the ‘Aqeeqah, I learned from the Shaykh that it is not necessary to shave the girl’s head but it is for a boy.

In regards to the book, then many publishers have printed it, so finding the print should not be difficult. When I went to the used bookstore to get my copy there were over five different printings. My wife has a different copy than mine, and all of the students in class have different printings as well.

The Mukhtasar has been translated into English under the name ‘Abridged Biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)’. You can read more about it here. Zaad-ul-Ma’aad itself has been translated into English by Shaykh Jalal Abul-Rub, but I do not know where to find it online. Maybe someone can find out and comment here, Allah willing.

Here in Riyadh, some of the Da’wah centers shorten the Mukhtasar and draw points of benefit from the Seerah and print small booklets to distribute free. I will write about it in an upcoming post soon, Allah willing.

Book Review: al-Muntaqaa min Akhbaar al-Mustafaa

al-Muntaqaa min Akhbaar al-Mustafaa
By al-Imam, al-Muhaddith, al-‘Allaamah Aboo Barakaat ‘Abdus-Salaam bin ‘Abdullah bin Taymiyyah al-Harraanee (D. 652 A.H.)
Tahqeeq: Khaalid bin Dhayf Allah ash-Shalaahee
Printed by Muassasah ar-Risaalah in 4 volumes

In these upcoming posts, I will focus on the texts that are taught by our Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan within his general study circles given Saturday through Tuesday. These lessons are all taught at Masjid al-Ameer Mu’tib bin ‘Abdil-‘Azeez in the Milaaz district of Riyadh. The Shaykh gives these four lessons and the Friday sermon, but he is not the Imam. The Imam here, Shaykh Naasir reads two texts on the Shaykh which is on Saturday and Tuesday. Another brother reads the text on the Shaykh on Sunday. Three of these lessons are read from texts of the Scholars while the Shaykh’s Tafseer class is done from the Shaykh’s memory based on his Tafseer studies as a youth. For more information on the Shaykh’s lessons and schedule you can click here.


Saturday is the first day of the week in Saudi and it is the first day that the Shaykh begins his general lessons from after al-Maghrib until al-‘Ishaa. This class is over the classical Hanbali text al-Muntaqaa min Akhbaar al-Mustafaa written by al-Imam Aboo Barakaat Majd-ud-Deen, may Allah have mercy upon him, who was the grandfather of the famous scholar Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah enlighten his grave.

The print that I have purchased and which is the most popular print is the four volume version printed by Mua’ssasah ar-Risaalah. I have seen other students with different printings but I am not familiar with who printed them and their volumes. This book is arranged by the main topics of Fiqh such as purification, prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage, etc. and presents the title of the subject and then the narration concerning the subject. Volume four contains a nicely arranged index of the topics and narrations.

The following image is an example of my notes taken during the Shaykh’s class. He usually covers 5 to 6 narrations and after each one is read to him, he goes on to explain the meaning of the narration and the vocabulary found in the text along with any Fiqh related aspects associated with the topic.


This particular print is a good printing with the exception of one section in which the Shaykh said is not found in the original text of the Muntaqaa. The quality is good and the pages are wide enough for decent dictation of the Shaykh’s explanations.

Book Review: Fadhaail Ahli-Yaman

Al-Qawl al-Hasan fee Fadhaail Ahli-Yaman
Collected and arranged by Aboo Basheer Muhammad bin ‘Alee az-Zakaree al-Hajooree
With a foreword by ash-Shaykh Yahyaa bin ‘Alee al-Hajooree
Printed by Daar al-Athaar
Pages 144

This is a very extensive compilation concerning the beneficial characteristics of the people of Yemen, compiled and arranged by one of the students of Daar-ul-Hadeeth in Dammaaj, may Allah protect it and have mercy upon its founder. This printing actually contains two books in one, both by the same author. The second book after this is entitled al-Ahaadeeth adh-Dha’eefah fee Fadhaail Ahli-Yaman, which is a collection of one hundred weak narrations concerning Yemen and its people.

The foreword is written by ash-Shaykh Yahyaa, the current rector of Daar-ul-Hadeeth, who is entrusted with reviewing all of the works put out by the students before they are ready for print.

The topics within this work are beautifully laid out and begin with an introduction, why Yemen is called Yemen, and then goes into the narrations concerning this blessed land. Other interesting topics include the statements of the people of knowledge concerning the people of Yemen, the names of some of the companions who were from Yemen, which numbers fifty seven companions, as well as the names of the most famous scholars of Yemen which numbers ninety two scholars, etc.

Book Review: Fadhaail ash-Shaam wa Dimashq

Takhreej Ahaadeeth Fadhaail ash-Shaam wa Dimashq
Written by al-Haafith Aboo al-Hasan ar-Rabi’ee and compiled by ash-Shaykh Muhammad Naasir-ud-Deen al-Albaanee
Published by Maktabat-ul-Maa’arif
Pages 80

This is a compilation of thirty narrations, both authentic, weak, and fabricated, concerning the beneficial characteristics of Syria and Damascus. The Shaykh, may Allah have mercy upon him, collected these narrations from al-Haafith Aboo al-Hasan ar-Rabi’ee’s (Died 444 A.H.) work and included the source of each narration, its grade of authenticity, and added notes to the narrations. Each narration includes the name of the companion but not the full chain of narrators.

The compilation sheds light on the blessings contained within Syria and Damascus in a time when it is filled with many trials and the Muslims are being persecuted and afflicted by secularism. We ask Allah to bless Syria and Damascus and to return it to the place of knowledge and application of Islam that it once was.

Book Review: Kitaab-ut-Tawheed

Kitaab-ut-Tawheed
Written by al-Imaam ‘Abdul-Ghanee al-Maqdisee
Printed by Daar as-Saqaa
Pages 95

Al-Imaam, al-Haafith, ‘Abdul-Ghanee bin ‘Abdul-Waahid bin ‘Alee bin Suroor al-Maqdisee (531-600 A.H.), may Allah have mercy upon him, compiled a collection of narrations along with their full chain of narrators concerning Tawheed. The text is divided into twenty-four topics on Tawheed and each narration is verified along with notes concerning finer points of the narration, by Muhamad ‘Abdur-Rahmaan an-Naablusee and ‘Abdul-Akram as-Saqaa. They both give an insightful introduction, a brief biography of the author, several copies of some of the pages from the original manuscript, and a detailed index of all of the narrations and subjects in the text for easy reference.

I bought this at a used bookstore here in Riyadh for a couple of Riyals hidden in a stack of dusty used books. I didn’t realize what a gem I had stumbled upon. I am not sure if this was ever reprinted but my copy was done in 1995.

Book Review: Letters from the Leaders of the Call to Tawheed

Rasaa’il Aa’immah Da’wati-Tawheed
Collected and prepared by Dr. Faysal bin Mash’al bin Sa’ood bin ‘Abdul-‘Azeez Aali Sa’ood
Page 237

I received this book as a gift from my neighbor Aboo Ibraaheem, may Allah reward him with good. This is a small compilation of letters from the Saudi kings beginning with the first, Imam Muhammad bin Sa’ood all the way to Fahd bin ‘Abdul-‘Azeez. The letters are written to their people on many topics such as the importance of Islam and Tawheed, observing prayer, the call of as-Salafiyyah, etc.

The book introduces a detailed explanation of the condition of the Arabian Peninsula before the call of Shaykh Muhammad bin ‘Abdil-Wahhaab and then goes into a brief biography of his life. Included is a chart showing all of the rulers in Arabia from the time of the Prophet, peace be upon him, until the present time. There is also a brief biography of each Saudi king concerning their place of birth, educational background, religious studies, and contributions to Islam.

This compilation exposes us to the religious side of these kings and towards their great concern for establishing Islam in the Arabian Peninsula in addition to their concern in spreading the true message of our religion to the Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Book Review: al-Bashaair fee as-Simaa al-Mubaashir

al-Bashaair fee as-Simaa al-Mubaashir Nasaaih wa Irshaadaat wa ghayrihaa
Written by ‘Abdullah bin ‘Iyaash al-Ahdal with foreword by ash-Shaykh Muhammad bin ‘Abdillah al-Wasaabee
Printed by Maktabah al-Imaam al-Waadi’ee and Daar ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab
Pages 95

This is a collection of memorable sound bites taken from the lectures of Shaykh Muqbil bin Haadee al-Waadi’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him. The late Muhaddith scholar of Yemen and founder of Daar-ul-Hadeeth in the village of Dammaaj, which is 30 minutes away from the north-Yemeni city of Sa’dah.

The book is divided into 26 sections of various topics such as his statements concerning seeking knowledge, recommended books to have for seeking knowledge, his comments about the deviant sects such as the Shiah, the Tableegh, the Ikhwan Muslimeen, his comments on America, and his warnings from disobedience and following the Quran and Sunnah.

I will translate some beneficial statements from the Shaykh so that you may get an idea of what the book is about. Under the section, “His advices and words of guidance towards his students”:

“Learning Tawheed is from the best ways of drawing closer to Allah.”

“The person who becomes beneficial in mastering the science of an-Nahw can cause benefit in all of the other sciences.”

“Do you learn so that the people will one day surround you? May Allah never cause blessing of knowledge for this reason.”

“Do you learn so that you can be a caller to a specific group? May Allah never cause blessing of knowledge for this reason. May Allah never cause blessing in any act until it becomes a sincere act (for Allah).”

“I advise the student of knowledge to marry the Sunni woman so that you can both build a Sunni home.”

And just some glimpses from the section, “His speech on some of the groups and sects”:

“I do not defend the rulers but I detest those who inspire take overs and revolutions.”

“The Hizbiyoon are more harmful on the Da’wah than the Sufis and the Shia because the ideology of at-Tasawwuf and at-Tashayyu’ has died.”

“Some of the women of Ahlus-Sunnah are more knowledgeable than many of the Azharis when it comes to the science of Hadeeth.”

“The group Jamaa’at-ul-Jihaad (the Party of Jihaad) deserved to be called Jamaa’at-ul-Fasaad (the Group of Corruption).”

And there are many other more too numerous to translate and post here. But the point being that this is a must have book for the Muslim to read and have as reference. May Allah have mercy upon the Shaykh, and grant him the highest place in paradise.

Two Explanations of the Jibreel Hadeeth from Two Major Scholars

Sharh Hadeeth Jibreel fee Ta’leem ad-Deen
By ash-Shaykh ‘Abdul-Muhsin al-‘Abbaad
Printed by Daar al-Mughnee li-Nashr wa at-Tawzee’
79 pages

The Shaykh breaks down the points of benefit contained within the narration where the angel Jibreel (Gabriel)-peace be upon him-came to the Prophet, peace be upon him, and asked about Islam. The Shaykh uses verses of the Quran and other narrations along with the statements of the scholars concerning the explanation of Islaam, Imaan, and Ihsan. It is brief but very comprehensive.

Sharh Hadeeth Jibreel alayhi salaam
Explained by ash-Shaykh Dr. Saalih al-Fawzaan
Printed by Daar al-‘Aasimah
Pages 64

This booklet is taken from the Shaykh’s general lessons given on Imam an-Nawawee’s Forty Hadeeth. It captures the Shaykh’s unique style of explanation that we benefit from him here in Riyadh when he gives the general lessons. The Shaykh goes through each line of the narration, point by point, and explains the words and the text based on evidences from the Quran, the Sunnah, and the statements of the scholars. One of the brothers who helped print the book referenced all of the verses and did a small Takhreej of the narrations.