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
My brother pilgrim, as there is for every group a leader and for every journey a guide, the leader of the Hajj group is the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and their guide is his example and Sunnah, for he has said “ take from me your rites of Hajj ”. Therefore it's incumbent on everyone who approaches the House of Allah for hajj or Umrah to learn the way it was performed by the prophet (peace be upon him) through accurate guidebooks and by asking scholars about any uncertainties one may have. This book now before you, noble pilgrim, is written in clear language and has a new format which presents and simplifies for you the rulings pertaining to Hajj and Umrah which I hope you will make use of as your guide. Notice : We could not be able to complete this book.
Author: Thalal bin Ahmad Al Aqil
Publisher: www.mnask.com The site of the rites
This book talks about some situations from the biography of our Prophet Muhammad such as: his life in Makkah, calling people to Islam, persecution for the early converts, emmigration to Abyssinia then Madina, Islamic country in Madina, conquest of Makkah, the farewell pilgrimage and his death. It also mentions his physical description and manner. In addition, it mentions what the prophet said about the environment, treatment of animals and relationships with non-Muslims. It also sheds light on his appreciation of woment and his love for children. On the other hand it takls about what non-Muslim scholars have said about Prophet Muhammad such as: Alphonse de Lamartine, Sir George Bernard Shaw, Michael Hart, Mahatma Gandhi, Thomas Carlyle, Edward Gibbon, Simon Ocklay, Annie Besant, W. Montgomery Watt, Bosworth Smith, Wolfgang Goethe, Lane-Poole, W.C. Taylor, Dr. Gustav Weil, Washington Irving, Arthur Glyn Leonard and Jules Masserman.
Reveiwers: Abu Adham Osama Omara
Publisher: http://www.mercyprophet.org
Brief lessons in fiqh, da'wah (calling to Islam), Creed and hadeeth and its terminologies taught in the Educational Department of Islamhouse. They help Muslims to be aware of what he indeed needs regarding the Islamic sciences. They also give him a glimpse of qualities of the caller to Islam.
Publisher: Islamic Propagation Office in Rabwah
A nice discussion of some important points needed by those callling to Islam
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1243
The author said in his introduction, "The study itself falls into four parts: Chapter One: An Introduction, Chapter Two: Aspects of Mercy for Human Beings in the Character of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Before the Divine Call, Chapter Three: Introducing the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Chapter Four: Aspects of Mercy for Human Beings in the Character of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) After the Divine Call."
Author: Mohammed Hassam Uddin Al-Khateeb
Reveiwers: Abu Adham Osama Omara