As we are in the blessed month of Ramadan, I’d like to share some book recommendations from my small library at home. Since Ramadan is the month of the Quran, I’ll start with recommended reading on Quranic sciences, following book son Hadith & sunnah, History, spirituality etc .
Quran & Its Sciences (Ulum al-Qur’an)
1. Tazkirul Quran (Quran Commentary)
by Maulana Wahidudin Khan
This is one of my favorite tafsir works. It focuses on intellectual interpretation rather than traditional legalistic or historical commentary, emphasizing the use of the Quran for contemplation and reflection on the signs of God in the universe, rather than focusing solely on legal rulings.
2.The History of the Qur’anic Text
by M.M. Al-Azami
A scholarly work detailing the meticulous preservation and compilation of the Quran from the time of revelation to the present day. This evidence-based account strengthens one’s faith in the authenticity and integrity of the divine text.
3. The Miraculous Language of the Qur’an: Evidence of Divine Origin
by Bassam Saeh
This book explores the I’jaz (inimitability) of the Quran, focusing on why its linguistic and literary style is considered a divine miracle. A compelling read for those who wish to appreciate the Quran’s unique and unparalleled eloquence.
4. The Miracles of the Qur’an
by Shaykh Muhammad Mitwalli ash-Sha’rawi
A fascinating look into the various miracles found within the Quran, from the scientific to the legislative. Shaykh Sha’rawi draws on his vast knowledge to reveal the layers of meaning and wonder contained within the sacred text.
5. The Qur’an and the Prophet in the Writings of Shaykh Ahmad Al-’Alawi
by Translated by Khalid Williams
An insightful exploration of how the revered Sufi master Shaykh Ahmad Al-’Alawi understood and wrote about the Quran and the Prophet (ﷺ). This work bridges classical scholarship with spiritual depth.
The Prophetic Example: Hadith & Sunnah
6. Riyad-us-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous) — 2 Volumes
by Imam an-Nawawi
A beloved collection of hadith, topically arranged to serve as a practical guide for daily ethical and spiritual life. Covering topics from sincerity and repentance to good manners, this is an indispensable companion for every Muslim.
7. Bulugh Al-Maram (Attainment of the Objective)
by Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar Al-Asqalani
A key hadith collection containing the primary proofs for Islamic legal rulings. Accompanied by brief notes from Subul-us-Salam, this text is essential for anyone seeking to understand the evidential basis of Islamic jurisprudence.
8. A Textbook of Hadith Studies
by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
An excellent academic introduction to the science of hadith (’Ulum al-Hadith), covering authenticity, compilation, classification, and criticism. This book explains how scholars authenticate and interpret the sayings of the Prophet (ﷺ).
9. Hadith and Sunnah: Ideals and Realities
Selected Essays
A collection of scholarly essays that clarifies the concepts of Hadith and Sunnah, examining their central importance in a Muslim’s life and addressing common misconceptions with academic rigor.
10. The Sunna of the Prophet
by Muhammad al-Ghazali
This is one of my favorite book, i almost re-read this book every year. This important work focuses on understanding and applying the holistic way of the Prophet (ﷺ), distinguishing authentic Sunnah from cultural accretions and offering a balanced, scholarly perspective.
11. The Influence of the Noble Hadith upon the Differences of Opinion amongst the Jurist Imams
by Shaykh Muhammad ‘Awwamah
An advanced and illuminating text that explains the sophisticated legal reasoning that led to different opinions among the great Imams of Islamic jurisprudence, demonstrating the richness and flexibility of the Islamic legal tradition.
Spiritual Purification (Tazkiyah)
12. The Inner Secrets of Worship
by Imam Ibn Qudamah al-Maqdisi
A profound guide that unveils the spiritual dimensions of our daily acts of worship — prayer, fasting, zakat, and more. This book transforms ritual acts from mere habits into deeply meaningful spiritual experiences, making it a perfect Ramadan companion.
13. The Book of Assistance
by Imam al-Haddad
A classic manual for the spiritual path, offering practical and timeless advice on purifying the heart, overcoming spiritual diseases, and living a life of God-consciousness. One of the most widely read texts in the Islamic spiritual tradition.
14. Allah Loves...
by Omar Suleiman
An uplifting and heartwarming book that fosters a love-based relationship with God by focusing on the deeds and qualities that are beloved to Allah. A beautiful and accessible read for people of all backgrounds.
15. Reassurance for the Seeker
by Dajani
A source of spiritual comfort and solace for anyone on a journey of faith. This book speaks directly to the heart, providing reassurance and strength for those who seek closeness to Allah.
Knowledge & Epistemology
16. The Excellence of Knowledge
by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali
A powerful treatise on the supreme virtue of seeking and acting upon sacred knowledge as a means of spiritual elevation. Ibn Rajab draws on the Quran and Sunnah to demonstrate why knowledge is the highest of virtues.
17. The Heirs of the Prophets
by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali
This work explains the noble role of scholars as inheritors of prophetic knowledge and the immense responsibility that comes with it. An inspiring read that motivates one to pursue and honor sacred knowledge.
18. Classification of Knowledge in Islam
by Osman Bakar
A fascinating work of intellectual history, exploring how Muslim scholars have historically categorized and approached the various branches of knowledge. This book highlights the richness and coherence of the Islamic intellectual tradition.
Islamic Law (Fiqh & Usul)
19. Al-Fiqh al-Islami
by Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi
A comprehensive and foundational text on Islamic Jurisprudence, providing a thorough overview of the principles and applications of Shari’ah. An essential resource for students and scholars of Islamic law.
20. Imam Al-Shatibi’s Theory of the Higher Objectives and Intents of Islamic Law
by Ahmad Al-Raysuni
A scholarly dive into the Maqasid al-Shari’ah — the ultimate goals and wisdom behind Islamic law. This work reveals the deeper purpose of Islamic rulings, showing how they serve to protect and promote human welfare.
21. Shah Wali Allah’s Treatises on Islamic Law
by Shah Wali Allah al-Dahlawi
An exploration of the legal philosophy of the great Indian subcontinent reformer, Shah Wali Allah. This work offers deep insights into the purpose and wisdom of Shari’ah, and remains highly relevant to contemporary Islamic thought.
History & Biography (Tarikh & Siyar)
22. Stories of the Prophets
by Ibn Kathir (Ad-Dimashqi)
A timeless classic that narrates the lives, trials, and triumphs of the prophets from Adam (AS) to Muhammad (ﷺ). Filled with lessons of faith, patience, and trust in God, this is essential reading for every Muslim.
23. The Biography of Imam Az-Zuhri
The life story of a pivotal figure in the early compilation of hadith. This biography showcases the extraordinary dedication and sacrifice of a scholar who played a foundational role in preserving the Sunnah for future generations.
24. The Biography of Imam Shawkani
by Salahuddin Ali Abdul-Mawjood
The inspiring life of a major jurist and reformer from Yemen, offering motivation through his unwavering commitment to knowledge, ijtihad, and the revival of authentic Islamic scholarship.
25. A Treasury of Ghazali
by Mustafa Abu Sway
Curated selections from the works of Imam al-Ghazali, one of Islam’s greatest spiritual masters. This anthology offers accessible insights into his profound wisdom on the purification of the soul and the path to God.
26. A Treasury of Ibn Taymiyyah
by Mustapha Sheikh
A carefully curated selection of the timeless thought and wisdom of Ibn Taymiyyah, one of the most influential scholars in Islamic history. This anthology makes his profound scholarship accessible to the modern reader.
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May this Ramadan be a month of immense blessings, forgiveness, and spiritual growth. May these books be a source of light and guidance on your journey. Ramadan Mubarak!