Michael Sugich on Islam, Sufism & the Search for True Spiritual Guidance in a Noisy World:The Growth Mindset with Silawath Irshad - September 28, 2025

 YouTube Video:

https://youtu.be/2emwHQj1Qoc?si=WVEj3yxwZfRslK4u

What does it mean to truly know God in a world drowning in distractions, noise, and false guides? In this deeply inspiring conversation, writer and spiritual traveler Michael Sugich shares his extraordinary journey from the stages of America's theater to the timeless wisdom of Islam and Sufism. Michael Sugich is an acclaimed American writer and spiritual traveler who converted to Islam in his early twenties. He has authored several celebrated works, including Signs on the Horizons, Hearts Turn, and the nine-volume series The Exemplars for Our Time (co-authored with photographer Peter Sanders), which document stories of faith, repentance, and the lives of contemporary saints. Michael opens up about his youth in the 1960s, his spiritual awakening, and the transformative role of Sufi teachers and authentic spiritual guides. We dive into the purpose of religion, the dangers of self-guided spirituality in the “Shaykh Google” age, and how seekers today can discern truth from illusion. This episode is a treasure chest for anyone seeking authentic spirituality, the meaning of Islam, and the path of the heart. 

Mecca Books: https://www.meccabooks.com/

Hearts Turn: Sinners, Seekers, Saints and the Road to Redemption: Michael Sugich

About The Book

’Hearts Turn’ is a singular and gripping exploration of the act of 'tawba', a Qur’anic term commonly translated as repentance. In English, repentance is a forbidding word that suggests a puritanical finality. But in Arabic the term 'tawba' is dynamic, meaning to ‘turn’ or ‘return’. 'At-Tawwab' is one of the Names of God, the Oft-Returning or Ever-Relenting. It is an active constant, an ongoing, compassionate reality that renews every moment we are alive. The process of purification is a process of continuous turning.

In ‘Hearts Turn’ Michael Sugich, author of ‘Signs on the Horizons’, tells stories that are harrowing and hilarious, heartrending and bizarre, profane and transcendent, and altogether full of hope, showing how men and women from many parts of the world and many walks of life have turned themselves around and taken a fork in the road toward a higher reality.

About The Author

Michael Sugich (Haroon Sugich) is a native of Santa Barbara, California and studied at UCLA and the California Institute of the Arts. He was initiated into a traditional Sufi order in 1972.
Since that time he has studied Sufi doctrine and practice with spiritual masters across the Arab and Islamic world. He lived for 23 years in the precincts of the sacred city of Makkah al-Mukarama where he kept company with many men of knowledge and illumination.
He has been a professional writer and communications advisor for forty years, and has written three books, including ‘Signs on the Horizon’. He was the co-founder of a successful public relations practice and has advised corporate leaders, senior religious figures and politicians.
He has lived in London, Bristol, Cairo and Dubai and currently resides in Istanbul.

Signs on the Horizons: Meeting With Men of Knowledge And Illumination: Michael Sugich

 An enthralling contemporary memoir of one seeker’s interactions with men who have transcended the ordinary and achieved stations of spirituality and enlightenment that in the modern world we only attribute to the Biblical fathers of ancient times or to myth.

Michael Sugich, an American writer who was initiated into a traditional Sufi order over forty years ago and who lived for 23 years in the sacred city of Makkah Al Mukaramah, has kept company with some of the greatest Sufi saints of the age from many parts of the world.

His book is a unique eye-witness narrative of a mystical tradition that today hides in plain sight, veiled by the turbulence and materialism gripping the Muslim world. It is a spellbinding personal memoir told with eloquence, empathy, self-effacing humor, insight and love.

Exemplars for Our Time: Michael Sugich

This unique series profiles the lives of Sayyida Fatima Yashrutia, Habib Ahmad Mashhur al-Haddad, Shaykh Murabit al-Hajj, Muzaffer Ozak Efendi, Sidi Muhammad ibn al-Habib, Sufi ‘Abd Allah Khan, Sayyid ‘Umar ‘Abd Allah Mwinyi Baraka, and Shaykh Salih al-Ja‘fari.

Volume One: The Luminous Virtues of the Sages of Islam
Series editor and author Michael Sugich takes a fascinating and richly detailed journey into the world of sainthood in Islam; a subject that is mystifying to many Muslims today. His penetrating exploration makes the case that the friends of God – the saints – are, and always have been, the true Muslim role models. And while they seem to have disappeared in modern times, they are in fact hiding in plain sight.

Volume Two: Shaykh Murabit al-Hajj, by Hamza Yusuf
Ascetic scholar-saint Shaykh Murabit al-Hajj would almost certainly have lived out his life in complete obscurity in the remote deserts of Mauritania had a young Hamza Yusuf not been guided in a dream to visit him, live in his tent, and learn at his feet. Sheykh Hamza authors this intimate and moving biography of one of the hidden treasures of our time, illustrated by the unique photography of Peter Sanders.

Volume Three: Habib Ahmad Mashhur al-Haddad, by Mostafa al-Badawi
Considered in his lifetime as one of the greatest saints of Islam, Habib Ahmad Mashhur al-Haddad’s compassionate teaching of traditional Islam had a profound influence on generations of followers and students including Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, Dr Umar Faruq Abd-Allah and Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad. Another former student, Dr Mostafa Badawi, writes this beautiful account of the scholar-sage, having dedicated his life to translating and interpreting his teachings.

Volume Four: Sayyida Fatima Yashrutia: Daughter of Akka, by Dr. Karim Lahham
Dr. Karim Lahham brings to life the compelling story of Sayyida Fatima Yashrutia, which spans two tempestuous centuries marked by world wars, the fall of the Ottoman empire, the catastrophe of 1948, and the civil war in Lebanon. The spiritual heir of her father, Sayyid ‘Ali Nurad’din al-Yashruti, Sayydia Fatima devoted her life to knowledge, teaching, prayer and invocation, and remains a beloved spiritual guide whose wisdom and inspiration lives on.

Volume Five: Sayyid ‘Umar ‘Abd’Allah: The Blessed One, by Michael Sugich
Steeped in traditional studies from early childhood, as well as passing through the prestigious Oxford University, Sayyid ‘Umar ‘Abdullah Mwinyi Baraka was a highly influential East African educator and diplomat and a charismatic interpreter in multiple languages of the tolerance and beauty of Islam. Michael Sugich remembers the ‘ongoing adventure’ of being with his former teacher, and the profound influence he had on many leaders of post-independence East Africa.

Volume Six: Muzaffer Ozak Efendi: The Polisher of Hearts, by Shems Friedlander
A colourful and charismatic teacher, Muzaffer Ozak Effendi nurtured his students with lively conversation in his bookstore, in cafes across Turkey, on the streets, and in his dervish lodge. A Sufi master, he ventured to America to introduce young seekers to the beauty of Islamic spirituality, and left a vibrant legacy across North America, Europe and the Middle East. Close disciple Shems Friedlander remembers his life and teachings, accompanied by unique photographs by the author.

Volume Seven: Shaykh Saleh al-Ja’fari, by Dr. Samer Dajani
For 30 years, Shaykh Saleh al-Ja’fari lived in a small chamber within Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, where he was the Imam; rarely venturing out other than to make pilgrimage to Makkah, or visit the tombs of saints across Egypt. Dr. Samer Dajani remembers this gifted teacher who became a legend in his own lifetime due to his discourses held every Friday in the courtyard of Al-Azhar Mosque, attracting huge crowds of people from all walks of life.

Volume Eight: Sufi ‘Abdullah Khan, by Michael Sugich
Leaving his native Pakistan for Birmingham in the UK, Sufi ‘Abdullah Khan’s mission was to bring a spiritual path to the thousands of Pakistani immigrants who had left for England for material gain. Michael Sugich looks back at Sufi’s remarkable tale that took him from a peasant village to the battlefields of North Africa and a Nazi prison camp in Europe, before a daring cross-country escape led him to a living spiritual master, and the start of his real adventure.

Volume Nine: Sidi Muhammad ibn al-Habib, by Michael Sugich
Michael Sugich takes us on an emotional and mesmerising journey back 50 years to the Zawiya of Shaykh Sidi Muhammad Ibn al-Habib in the Moroccan city of Meknes, where he first became affiliated with the great Sufi sage – one of the most influential figures in the North African spiritual tradition in the twentieth century. The volume is illustrated with unique portraits of the Shaykh taken by Peter Sanders, including a previously unpublished photograph.

Shaykh Muhammad Bin Yahya Al-Ninowy:The collapse of Ottoman Empire & rise of Salafi Movements- MuhammadThe Merciful -September 21,2025

 YouTube Video: The collapse of Ottoman Empire and rise of Salafi movements

https://youtu.be/7VY61eXl0k8?si=PJU_TB3f8hnPP_w6

YouTube Video: Episode 26 -Sufism,Salafi Critique, and the State of the Ummah: A Conversation with Tafhim Kiani-

https://youtu.be/7OLg825p3F8?si=GUYPrXoN3bMbCWqA

Shaykh Dr. Muhammad al-Ninowy: Sufism, Salafi Critique & the State of the Ummah - A Conversation - Episode 26 - Kianistan- Jan 12,2025 - A Must Watch Interview with Answers to our Critical Questions
Shaykh Dr. Muhammad al-Ninowy is a renowned scholar and spiritual leader with deep roots in Islamic theology and Sufism. He has been listed among The 500 Most Influential Muslims in a publication compiled by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre in Amman, Jordan.
In this thought-provoking interview, Shaykh Ninowy explores profound topics including Sufism, Salafi critiques, and the challenges facing the Muslim Ummah today.
Shaykh Ninowy, whose lineage traces back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), brings a wealth of scholarly expertise, having studied at Al-Azhar University and earned a PhD in Hadith sciences. He is the founder of the Madina Institute and a pioneer in promoting non-violence and unconditional compassion as central themes in Islam.
In this conversation, we delve into pressing issues in Islamic theology, including:
Salafi criticisms of Sufi practices such as dhikr, mawlid, and the veneration of saints.
The concept of tawheed and accusations of shirk often leveled at Sufis.
The adab (etiquette) of criticism in Islam amidst disillusionment with scholars and political leaders.
Shaykh Ninowy also addresses the intersection of religion and geopolitics, offering insights into understanding suffering in Muslim lands and finding a path forward without despair or rash reactions. He emphasizes the importance of returning to Islam’s authentic values and argues that, while individuals cannot always control external events, they can control their reactions, embodying patience and resilience.
Drawing on his expertise in theology, Sufism, and Islamic history, Shaykh Ninowy provides both spiritual insight and practical guidance for navigating turbulent times. His message of compassion, non-violence, and unwavering faith resonates powerfully in today’s world.
Join us for this deep and illuminating conversation.

Dr. Tarek Elgawhary: "Gate to Madina: Regaining the Art of Islam" Part1,2,3 -Jul 13, 2025

 YouTube Video Part1:

https://youtu.be/Qz00bjPSTzA?si=KTFJVLmfR0z32m8a

As I'm getting ready to make my new book "Gate to Madina: Regaining the Art of Islam" ready for publication, I thought it might be helpful to share with you all why and how I wrote this book. In this mini-series I'll give you some insight on where the idea came from, why I think it's important, and how I went about researching and writing this book.

YouTube Video Part2:

https://youtu.be/cPxyO1RBUJo?si=wDK6GgUApTe0qxZz

YouTube Video Part3:

https://youtu.be/i2wIBXTz048?si=zI58DxoLG0eTYcLQ

Dr. Tarek Elgawhary is a scholar of Islam and comparative religions having studied at both Princeton University and al-Azhar Seminary. He is the creator of the Making Sense of Islam platform where he discusses issues related to life, Islam, and wellness.

Book Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Gate-Madina-Regaining-Art-Islam/dp/1735331392

Gate to Madina tells two stories. The first is the rise of different versions of fake Islam (Islamology) and the great gap they helped create from the late 18th century onward between Islam as a religion and Islam as a civilization. The second is how to mend this gap through regaining the “art of Islam” in its dual form of independent creative mastery buttressed by deep spiritual insight.

While not meant to be an academic work per se, those concerned with the details of many of the claims laid out throughout these pages will find copious references and a full bibliography to help guide you.

The story of yesterday, while important to understand today, need not be the story of tomorrow. The journey ahead is open and bright if we but choose art over sentimentality.

Tarek Elgawhary is a scholar of Islam and comparative religions having studied at both Princeton University and al-Azhar Seminary. He is the creator of the Making Sense of Islam platform where he provides meditations on strategy, mindfulness, and Islam. More information can be found at www.makingsenseofislam.com.

Understanding Fitrah and it's Metaphysical and Ethical implications | Prof. Dr. Yasien |ISIP-International Students of Islamic Psychology - April 16,2025

YouTube Video Part 1.

https://youtu.be/ZQsUxcAGU2g?si=CAHlQ3YgFD_QgnCV

ISIP-International Students of Islamic Psychology hosted Prof. Dr. Yasien Mohamed on Sunday, April 13th, 2025. He spoke on Understanding Fitrah: It’s Implication for Islamic Psychology. During this two-part lecture, we will explore fitrah, the implications in our daily life, and also the relevance with Islamic Psychology. The session was in English, including engaging audience Questions and Answers. This is the Part 1 about: Fitrah and it's Metaphysical and Ethical implications.

YouTube Video Part 2.

https://youtu.be/qHNzSI6HPCw?si=_VA6TFCjTfSUaNxY

ISIP-International Students of Islamic Psychology hosted Prof. Dr. Yasien Mohamed on April 26th, 2025. He spoke on “Fitrah and Its Psychological and Therapeutic Implications." This is part 2 of the exploration of understanding the fitrah, and the implications and relevance with Islamic Psychology. The session was in English, including engaging audience Questions and Answers. Prof. Dr. Yasien Mohamed is an Emeritus Professor of Arabic Studies and Islamic Philosophy at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa, with a Ph.D. in Islamic Ethics. A prolific scholar, he has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles and several books on Islamic philosophy, psychology, and ethics, including Fiṭrah: The Islamic Concept of Human Nature. His work has earned him international recognition, including the World Prize Book of the Year Award from the Republic of Iran.

Ph.D Thesis, University of Cape Town: 

The Islamic Concept of Human Nature with special reference to the Development of an Human Psychology-Dr. Yasien Mohamed 

chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://open.uct.ac.za/server/api/core/bitstreams/dc0df58f-995c-41c6-8e1f-6212fd3dfc31/content

Amazon Book: 

Fitrah: The Islamic concept of human nature – Dr. Yasien Mohamed

https://www.amazon.com/amz-books/store

Contemplating the Quran: A Thematic Thirty-Part Commentary on the Noble Qur'an By Ahmed Saad Al-Azhari , Asim Yusuf & Noor Yusuf (translator) Ihsan Institute - Mecca Books

This original work by Shaykh Ahmed Saad presents a commentary (tafsir) of each of the 30 juz of the Quran. Each juz of the Quran is of equal length, facilitating the completion of the recitation of the Quran every month (over 30 days). With this work by Shaykh Ahmed Saad, regular reciters of the Quran can gain a better understanding of the themes explored in any given juz, apace with their recitation.

Mecca Books: https://www.meccabooks.com/

Shaykh Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Saad Al-Azhari was born in Ramadan 1398 (August 1978) in the northern Egyptian governorate of Menoufiyyah in the Nile Delta to a scholarly family with a Prophetic lineage through Imam al-Hasan. After completing the memorisation of the Quran at the age of 10 under his father’s teaching and finishing his primary education, he joined Al-Azhar prep and secondary institute in a neighbouring village for 7 years. Having completed his secondary certificate, he joined Al-Azhar University graduating with a BA in Islamic Studies in English in 2001. He also completed postgraduate studies in 2004, attended academic programs at the University of Erfurt, Germany, and as a Fulbright scholar attended the University of California Santa Barbara in 2005. Dr. Saad completed his PhD in the School of Philosophy, Theology and Religion at the University of Birmingham, UK. In his PhD, Dr. Saad specialises in engagements between traditional Muslim scholars and modernity in the colonial and post-colonial Muslim world with a special focus on the project of Habib Abu Bakr al-Mashhūr.

In his early career, Shaykh Saad worked in several institutions including the Egyptian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs and travelled to Canada, Malaysia, and the UK as an Imam. He settled in the UK at the beginning of 2007 as an Imam in North London while actively engaged with local and international faith organizations including appearances in BBC and France 24/7. His impact was recognised by the Catholic Archbishop of Westminster, the Islington Faith Forum, and other institutions. After this successful tenure, he established Ihsan Institute UK, an educational enterprise with a focus on making traditional knowledge relevant and meaningful. Ihsan Institute UK has its sister organisation Ihsan Institute Singapore also under the supervision of Shaykh Saad. In teaching and speaking capacities, Shaykh Dr Saad worked with many communities across the world travelling to Argentina, Austria, Australia, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, UAE, Qatar, Morocco, Gambia, South Africa, Turkey, Uruguay, Canada, USA, Sweden, Norway, Spain and Germany. This wide experience enriched his ability to deal with people from different backgrounds and cultures and see the human experience beyond the limitations of location and language.

In his traditional studies, Shaykh Saad started studying Arabic language sciences like grammar, morphology, rhetoric, literature, and prosody with his father from a very early age. He also studied modes of recitation (qirā’āt), Ash’ari theology (kalam and ‘aqīdah), tajwīd, Islamic astronomy and prayer timing (falak and tawqīt), Maliki jurisprudence (fiqh), logic (mantiq), Hadīth terminology (mustalah), Quranic hermeneutics (tafsīr), Tasawwuf, legal theory (usul al-fiqh) with a wide circle of teachers from Egypt, Syria, Morocco, Mauritania, Madīnah and Ahsā. This included memorising mutūn (at least one main text) in these respective sciences in addition to thousands of lines of poetry from pre-Islamic to modern poetry including the mu’allaqāt.

Shaykh Saad has traditional ijazāt with an unbroken chain of riwāyah in the six Hadith books, Muwatta, Shama’il, Shifā, Alfiyat al-Iraqi in Sīrah and musalsal hadith collections. His sanad in the Quran is one of the shortest among his peers in the narration of Hafs. In his secondary certificate, he was one of the top ten students in Egypt and was honoured by the governor of Menoufiyyah. In his university years, Shaykh Saad always topped his class and was hosted, in his last year in university, by King Fahad and the Ministry of Hajj alongside 100 students from 10 Muslim countries as the King’s guest.

Besides his late father Shaykh Mohamed Saad, his teachership includes; Habib Dr. Abu Bakr al-‘Adni b. Ali al-Mashhūr, Shaykh Shibl Matar, Shaykh Dr. Ali Gomah, Shaykh Dr. Abdel-Hamīd Al-Mubarak, Shaykh Ahmad Mawlūd b. Muhammad al-Mustafa al-Yaqūbi al-Shinqīti, Shaykh Dr. Ayman Suwaid, Shaykh Abdul-Fattah Madkour, Shaykh Ali Tawfīq al-Nahhas, Shaykh Abdul-Rahman al-Kittani, Habib Zayn b. Sumayt, Shaykh Abdel-Basit Hashim, Shaykh Yahya al-Ghawthani, Shaykh Ahmad al-Surti, Shaykh Yahya al-Mulla, Shaykh Dr. Ahmad Sharīf al-Manbiji, Shaykh Muhammad al-Baqqāli and others who including Shyūkh of riwāyah exceed 85 teachers.

Shaykh Ahmad has a special interest in Maliki Fiqh, Arabic grammar, rhetoric and literature, Tafsīr, and qirā’āt. He has authored a number of books in Arabic and English including Contemplating the Quran and Forty Parables from the Quran in addition to two anthologies of poetry and some didactic poems. He lives in the UK and teaches and travels internationally.

Source:https://www.ihsaninstitute.co.uk/Faculty

YouTube Video: Contemplating the Quran: Shaykh Ahmad Saad Al Azhari - Lot Tree Foundation -12/29/2020 - https://youtu.be/KB3Ciwul4Nk?si=1rbqz8KAwpbpYbHZ

Shaykh Ahmed Saad introduces his latest book that he's authored 'Contemplating the Quran: A Thematic Thirty-Part Commentary on the Noble Quran' to a captive audience. The book aims to provide the reader the ability to connect, understand and experience the Qur'an by summarising each chapter of the Qur'an into simply 2-3 pages. Copies can be ordered through: admin@ihsaninstitute.co.uk

The Art of Cultivating Noble Character | Prof. Dr. Yasien Mohamed | Lecture in English -ISIP-International Students of Islamic Psychology -Feb 21, 2025

YouTube Video:

https://youtu.be/f55gQnzmJ2I?si=jzTKsa83EFTN3b5f

ISIP-International Students of Islamic Psychology hosted Prof. Dr. Yasien Mohamed on Saturday, January 25th, 2025. He spoke on “The Art of Cultivating Noble Character”. The session was in English, including engaging audience Questions and Answers. 

Professor. Dr. Yasien Mohamed (South Africa) is an Emeritus Professor of Arabic Studies and Islamic Philosophy at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa, with a Ph.D. in Islamic Ethics. A prolific scholar, he has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles and several books on Islamic philosophy, psychology, and ethics, including Fiṭrah: The Islamic Concept of Human Nature. His work has earned him international recognition, including the World Prize Book of the Year Award from the Republic of Iran.

Mecca Books:

The Art of Cultivating Noble Character: Raghib al-Isfahani's Kitab al-Dhari'a ila Makarim al-Shari'a
By Raghib al-Isfahani , Yasien Mohamed (translator) 

This groundbreaking translation revives Imam Raghib al-Isfahani's seminal ethical treatise, integrating Qur'anic principles with philosophical depth. Isfahani's timeless exploration of moral virtue, the soul and spiritual refinement is characterized by his unique weaving of Qur'anic verses and prophetic traditions into ethical discourse.

Yasien Mohamed, Emeritus Professor of Arabic and Islamic Philosophy at the University of the Western Cape, brings Isfahani's insights to the English speaking world. The Art of Cultivating Noble Character offers a rich, contemplative journey into Islamic moral thought, ideal for philosophy students, spiritual growth seekers and those deepening their understanding of Islamic virtue ethics.

Following a meticulous three-year review, this expertly translated edition, featuring a critical introduction, is now available. As a seminal influence on thinkers like Imam Ghazali, Isfahani's masterpiece continues to provide timeless wisdom for life's most pressing moral questions.

Source:https://www.meccabooks.com/

Review:

Reviewer Shaykh Ahmed el-Azhary points out that Dr Yasien Mohamed’s translation of a historical treatise is ‘a significant contribution to Islamic philosophy and ethics’.

Today, as the world grapples with moral relativism, the erosion of spiritual values, and the complexities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the need for a return to virtue ethics is more pressing than ever.

Imam Raghib al-Isfahani’s ethical treatise, The Art of Cultivating Noble Character, provides a beacon of light, reminding us that true success is measured not by power or wealth, but by the integrity and virtue with which we live our lives.

In a time when humanity often feels lost in the pursuit of material gains, this work re-centres our focus on what it truly means to live a good and meaningful life. The revival of virtue ethics, particularly through the lens of Islamic thought, offers a counterbalance to the disintegration of moral absolutes in the modern world. Isfahani’s treatise provides a timeless map for navigating the challenges of today, guiding us not only in personal conduct but in our collective responsibilities to society and the environment.

I am delighted to review Dr Yasien Mohamed’s monumental work, The Art of Cultivating Noble Character. This annotated translation of al-Raghib al-Isfahani’s Kitab al-Dhari’a ila Makarim al-Shari’a (The Means to the Noble Virtues of the Divine Law) represents a significant contribution to Islamic philosophy and ethics.

The book is structured into seven chapters, exploring human nature, morality and virtues. The first chapter deals with the psychology of the soul, followed by subsequent chapters on the intellect, knowledge and the virtues.


Shaikh Hamza Yusuf writes the foreword, highlighting the impact of Kitab al-dhari’ah on Imam al-Ghazali’s ethical treatise. This work is a testament to the rich tradition of Islamic thought, which emphasises the cultivation of noble character as a means to achieving spiritual growth and moral excellence.

In an era dominated by deontological and consequentialist approaches, Dr Mohamed’s work revives the rich tradition of virtue ethics within Islam. The Dhari’ah presents a comprehensive ethical framework, integrating Quranic principles with philosophical virtues. This synthesis offers profound insights into cultivating virtuous character for both worldly success and eternal felicity.

Mohamed’s meticulous translation and insightful commentary illuminate the relevance of these virtues in addressing contemporary moral dilemmas.

Isfahani reminds us that ethical living encompasses nurturing the soul, fostering wisdom and cultivating character. His treatise provides a timeless map for navigating the challenges of today, guiding us not only in personal conduct but in our collective responsibilities to society and the environment.

Mohamed has preserved a key piece of our intellectual heritage, ensuring it continues to inspire and guide future generations. His ability to convey the depth and complexity of Isfahani’s thoughts in accessible English showcases his expertise in Arabic and Islamic philosophy. The annotated translation is an invaluable resource for students, academics, and anyone interested in the intersection of Islamic ethics and philosophical inquiry. I wholeheartedly commend Mohamed for his dedication and scholarly rigour in bringing this classic text to a wider audience.

Shaikh Ahmed El Azhary is a researcher in Islamic intellectual history and a teacher of Islamic traditional sciences. He was formerly the Lead Researcher at Tabah Foundation.

Source:https://muslimviews.co.za/the-rich-tradition-of-virtue-ethics-within-islam/

Shaykh Dr. Muhammad Al Ninowy:The Forty Hadith on the Virtues of al-Madinah al-Munawwarah- Madina TV -16 September 2025

YouTube Video:

https://www.youtube.com/live/aJ6jcdVOc-w?si=pUJt5zHppxXJ3Xtm

Firdous Books:The Forty Hadith on the Virtues of al-Madinah al-Munawwarah & Good Tiding for Lovers Visiting the Final Messenger ﷺ : Shaykh Muhammad Bin Yahya al-Ninowy / Translated by Rashad Jameer 

Part 1:

The Forty Hadith on the Virtues of al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, is an exceptional compilation of hadith by Shaykh Muhammad Al Ninowy, offering deep insight into the revered city of Madinah. It highlights the unparalleled virtues of this blessed city, making it a source of inspiration for every true lover of the final Messenger ﷺ.

Through meticulously selected narrations, this work illuminates the immense benefits and blessings associated with visiting Madinah and, more specifically, the sacred presence of the Messenger ﷺ. Each hadith serves as a reminder of the spiritual significance of this journey, guiding the hearts of those who seek closeness to the Prophet ﷺ.

Part 2:

Good Tidings for Lovers Visiting the Final Messenger ﷺ, offers practical tips, insights, and suggestions drawn from the author’s personal experiences and the wisdom passed down by scholars and teachers.

The author provides a step-by-step guide on how to approach a visit to the Final Messenger ﷺ, offering clear and concise advice. Alongside these practical tips, he shares his own firsthand experiences in navigating the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of this noble visitation.

Shaykh Muhammad Al Ninowy’s account of his innermost thoughts before entering the blessed precincts is deeply relatable, taking the reader on a journey to the very threshold of the Prophetic Masjid.

Whether you're planning to embark on the sacred journey of Umrah, or Hajj, this book is an invaluable companion. It is not only an essential read for anyone visiting Madinah, but also a cherished addition to any Muslim home library, enriching the soul and fostering an intimate connection with the beloved Prophet ﷺ.

Shaykh Dr Muhammad al-Ninowy is a Syrian-American scholar and author based in Atlanta, Georgia, whose lineage is traced back to the Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him). Al-Ninowy is considered a scholar in hadith. In addition to a PhD in Islamic studies, he also holds a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from the University of Illinois, and a Doctor of Medicine degree. He is the founding director of Madina Institute and Seminaries, the Center for Non-Violence and Peace Studies, and the charitable organisation Planet Mercy, globally. Al-Ninowy is also leading a reformist Rifa‘i Shadhili Sufi school aiming to completely realign Sufi principles, litanies, and practices to the Qur’an and Sunnah in an effort to revive the school of Tasawwuf of Ahl al-hadith. His latest release is: The Book of Love; a reflection on Islam from the perspective of love.

Source:https://firdousbooks.com/the-forty-hadith-on-the-virtues-of-al-madinah-al-munawwarah-hardcover/

Notions That Must Be Corrected By Muhammad ibn Alawi al-Maliki (ra) , Abdul Aziz Suraqah (translator) Sunni Publications - Mecca Books

About The Book

Notions That Must Be Corrected is perhaps the most important and renowned work of the late Sayyid, Shaykh Muhammad b. ‘Alawi al-Maliki al-Hasani (ra). Throughout his masterpiece the author offers valuable and wise words of caution against extremism and invites the Muslims to the path of Ahl al-Sunna wal-Jama‘a, the hallmark of which is tolerance and moderation. Sayyid Muhammad expertly clarifies the correct position relating to numerous ‘controversial’ contemporary topics whilst maintaining strict adherence to the Qur’an, the Sunna, and the way of the Salaf.

The book itself has been divided into three parts, the first of which is concerned with areas of research relating to Islamic doctrine, including clarifying the corruption found in the criterion for imputing others with disbelief and misguidance, as well as concepts such as intermediation and intercession. The second section deals with issues relating to the Prophet e, including his unique characteristics, the reality of Prophecy, the reality of humanity, and the correct understanding of seeking blessings from the Prophet e and his relics. The final part deals with miscellaneous areas of research including the Isthmus life (barzakh), the legality of visiting the Prophet e, and other related matters such as relics, sanctuaries, and festive religious occasions.

Scores of Islamic scholars hailing from all parts of the world wrote commendations for this work, while many more have taught from it, or written about it in their articles. The huge positive impact the book made in Islamic circles unfortunately led to hardship for the noble Shaykh in his home country due to misguided verdicts leveled against him. He was prevented from teaching in the Masjid al-Haram and his position at Umm al-Qurra’ University was also terminated. Numerous vicious personal attacks and baseless replies from those who opposed the methodology of Ahl al-Sunna were also published. In response to this, leading scholars throughout the world vehemently defended the noble Shaykh and wrote extensive and decisive refutations of his detractors.

'This book should be required reading for the Islamic world, and should be studied and taught to children because of the explicit truth, correct views and defense of Islam’s sanctities that it contains. This book clarifies the misguidance, lies, and false claims of the enemy, and certainly, Allah shall aid His righteous servants by aiding His religion.

About The Author

Muhammad Alawi al-Maliki (1944–2004) was a prominent Sunni Islamic scholar from Saudi Arabia. Muhammad Alawi al-Maliki was born in Mecca to a family of well known scholars who, like himself, taught in the Sacred Mosque.Five of the his ancestors have been the Maliki Imams of the Masjid al-Haram of Mecca. His grandfather, al-Sayyid Abbas al-Maliki was the Mufti and Qadi of Mecca and the Imam and Khatib of Masjid al-Haram. He held this position during the Ottoman then Hashemite times, and continued to hold it after the Saudi Kingdom was established too. He taught the various traditional Islamic sciences in the Masjid al-Haram of Mecca for nearly 40 years. After finishing his traditional education in his hometown of Makkah, he was sent by his father to study at Al-Azhar University of Egypt. He received his Ph.D. from the Al-Azhar University at the age of 25, making him the first and youngest Saudi to earn a Ph.D. from there. His thesis on Hadith was rated excellent and highly praised by the eminent Ulama (Islamic scholar) of the university at that time, such as Muhammad Abu Zahra

His famous students include his son Al-Sayyid Ahmed Bin Muhammed Bin Alawi Al Maliki who still teaches at his family residence in Mecca everyday, Al-Sayyid Abdullah Fad'aq another Famous Saudi Sunni scholar based in and teaches at his residence in Jeddah, Habib Ali al-Jifri and Habib Umar bin Hafiz. Regardless of criticisms against him, Maliki retained prominence. In an attempt to counter the Islamic revival in the early 1990s, the Government of Saudi Arabia began supporting practitioners of Sufism in the Hijaz region as a way to bolster religious support of the state; Maliki became the self-imposed leader of Hijazi Sufism under state sponsorship, with several thousand supporters.

From that time until his death in 2004, he taught Hadith, Fiqh, Tafsir and Tasawwuf at his home and mosque on al-Maliki street in the Rusayfah district of Mecca, and his public lessons, between Maghrib and Isha', were attended by no less than 500 people daily. Many students from the University used to attend his lessons in the evenings. Even the night before he died, his lesson was well attended. Hundreds of students from all over the Islamic world benefited from his lessons in the Masjid al-Haram Makkah and many hold key religious positions in their lands today.

He was also nominated as the head judge at the international Qira'at (Qur'anic reading) competition in Mecca for three consecutive years.
Al-Maliki was a prolific writer and has produced close to one hundred books. He has written on a variety of religious, legal, social and historical topics and many of his books are prescribed textbooks in Islamic institutes around the world. Source: https://www.meccabooks.com/

Interview with Sayyid Muhammad b. Alawi al-Malik about his book “Notions That Must Be Corrected” Three Videos with English Subtitles

https://asublimeway.com/interview-with-sayyid-muhammad-b-alawi-al-malik-about-his-book-notions-that-must-be-corrected/

Sayyid Muhammad bin 'Alawi al-Maliki al-Hasani: A Biography Detailed

https://www.imamghazali.org/resources/muhammad-alawi-al-maliki-biography

Shaykh Farid Dingle: 10 Video Lectures:Notions That Must Be Corrected By Muhammad ibn Alawi al-Maliki (ra) Excellent

https://youtu.be/2uMFmG4nGLw?si=ABtju0eXtktWGPJn

Al-Sheikh Afeefuddin Al-Jailani: Notions That Must be Corrected - Part 2 - Darul Jailani International 15th April 2012 Video Lectures

https://youtu.be/MGWVxmLaY80?si=uShKa1hjA7kiCwqK

Celebrating Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam)'s Birth (Mawlid): Dar Al-Ifta, Egypt

Question:

Is it lawful to celebrate birthday of Prophet Muhammad?

Answer:

Yes, it is permissible to commemorate the noble birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).
The birth of the Prophet is a mercy to the universe. The Qur’an describes the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as a ‘mercy to creation.” This mercy is unlimited for it includes teaching and guiding man to the straight path as well as promoting both his material and spiritual wellbeing. As such, this mercy was not limited to those who lived at the Prophet’s time, but extends throughout time. This is attested by the Quran which, describing the Prophet’s mercy, states, "To them and to others yet to join them" (Qur`an 62:3).

Commemorating the birth of the Prophet is a manifestation of our love for him (saws):

Commemorating the birth of Prophet Mohammed (peace and blessings be upon him), the seal of prophets and messengers, is among the best deeds and one of the greatest acts which brings us closer to God. This is because it is a manifestation of our joy and love for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) which is one of the principles of faith. It has been authentically reported from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) that he said, "None of you will [truly] believe until I am dearer to him than his father, son and all mankind” (Bukahri). Ibn Rajab said that love for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is one of the principles of faith and is analogous to our love for God, the Majestic. God threatened those who give precedence to things which are naturally dear to them such as relatives, wealth, and homeland over their love for Him and His Messenger. He said: "Say [Prophet], ‘If your fathers, sons, brothers, wives, tribes, the wealth you have acquired, the trade which you fear will decline, and the dwellings you love are dearer to you than God and His Messenger and the struggles in His cause, then wait until God brings about His punishment" (Quran 9:24).

‘Umar once told the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), “O Messenger of God! You are dearer to me than everything except myself." The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) replied, “No! By He in Whose Hands is my soul, [you will not truly love me] until I am dearer to you than yourself." ‘Umar then said, “By God, now you are dearer to me than myself.” The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) replied, “Now ‘Umar you truly love me]” (Bukhari).


Commemorating the birth of the Prophet is equal to honoring him (saws):

Commemorating the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is equal to honoring him, which is itself undeniably sanctioned in Islamic law. God acknowledges the rank of His prophet, so He informed all creation of his name, advent, his status and importance. The whole universe is eternally joyous with the light of God and His blessing upon His creatures. Celebrating the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is an essential part of honoring him.

Since the 4th and 5th centuries after the advent of Islam, our predecessors have spent the night celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) through many kinds of acts bringing them closer to God. They held banquets, recited the Quran, made dhikr (remembrance of God) and recited poetry and eulogies on the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). This was recorded by several historians, including scholars of hadith such as Ibn al-Jawzi, ibn Kathir, ibn Dihya al-Andalusi, ibn Hajar, and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti (may God have mercy upon them). The majority of the scholars from among our predecessors and their successors clearly stated the legitimacy of celebrating the noble birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).


Books on the subject:

A group of scholars authored books commending the commemoration of the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and used authentic evidence to demonstrate its recommendation, leaving no doubt to any sane person on the permissibility of the practice of our righteous predecessors. Mentioning valuable remarks on the topic, Ibn al-Hajj described the advantages of celebrating the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in great length in his book Al-Madkhal the subject of which was the condemnation of innovations for which there is no evidence in Islamic law. Likewise, Imam al-Suyuti wrote a separate treatise which he entitled Husn al-Maqsid fi 'Amal al-Mawlid.


Etymology of the word ihtifal (commemoration)

In the Arabic language, the meanings of 'ihtifal' 'commemoration' include among others, to flow copiously, to assemble, and congregate. The meaning of the word in this context does not depart much from its linguistic meaning since the purpose of commemorating the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is to gather the masses for making dhikr, singing the Prophet’s praises, extolling his virtues, and holding banquets as a charity in the way of God, all of which demonstrate our joy over the Prophet’s birth.


Means of celebration:

People customarily celebrate this occasion with buying and gifting sweets and candy made specifically for this occasion. Gift giving is a recommended act in itself, and there is no evidence for its permissibility or its lack thereof concerning a particular time. Furthermore, if we add to this other righteous objectives such as bringing joy to the members of one's household and maintaining the ties of kinship, it becomes even more recommended and meritorious, especially if it is an expression of one's joy over the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). This is because the means have the same rulings as the ends and opinions maintaining its prohibition or which seek to prevent its celebration are considered reprehensible and excessive restrictiveness.

Some people doubt the permissibility of celebrating such occasions due to their absence in the early centuries of Islam. Even if this were true, it does not justify preventing the celebration of the Prophet’s birth. No person could doubt the joy of those who lived at that time (may God be pleased with them) over [the birth of the] Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

There are many ways to express joy, which is not an act of worship in itself, and there is no objection to choosing one or the other; therefore expressing joy at the Prophet’s birth in individual ways is permissible. Our predecessors celebrated the birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in various ways. They held banquets, recited the Quran, made invocations, and sang poetry and eulogies on the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his household.

There is evidence in the Sunnah that the Companions celebrated the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) with his acknowledgment and permission. Burayda al-Asmali (may God be pleased with him) said that after the Prophet’s return from one of his conquests, he was approached by a black slave girl who told him, "O Messenger of God! I vowed to beat the duff and sing before you if God returned you safely." He replied, "If you had made a vow, then go ahead, but if not, then do not beat the duff" (reported by Imam Ahmed and al-Tirmidhi who declared it an authentic and singular hadith). Thus, if beating the duff to express joy at the Prophet's safe return from battle is permissible and he acknowledged it and commanded the girl to fulfill her vow, then expressing joy over his birth by beating the duff or any other means that are permissible in themselves is even greater and more desirable.

It has been narrated in Sahih Bukhari that God reduces Abu Lahab's torture in hell-fire every Monday by allowing him to drink from the depression of his palm in spite of being a stubborn unbeliever and an enemy of God and His Messenger. This alleviation from torture is due to his joy over the birth of the best of mankind, expressed by his manumission of his slave girl Thuwayba when she brought him the glad tidings of the noble birth of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Imagine then the reward of God to the believers who are overjoyed over the Prophet's birth and the radiance of His light upon the universe.


The Prophet (saws) taught us how to commemorate his birth:

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) recommended the nature of thanking God Almighty for his own noble birth. It was reported in an authentic hadith narrated by Abu Qatadah that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) fasted on Mondays and said, “I was born on this day” (Muslim). The fast is in gratitude for God’s favor to him and to the [Islamic] community by his very presence. It is even more appropriate for the community to follow the Prophet’s example in thanking God for His benefaction through all expressions of gratitude, such as feeding others, chanting eulogies, assembling for dhikr, fasting and praying the Night Vigil prayer — each expressing his gratitude in their own way.

In his detailed biography of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Khayr al-'Ibad, al-Salihi cited a righteous man from among his contemporaries as saying that he saw the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in a dream and complained to him that some of the pseudo scholars claim that the celebration of this occasion is an innovation in religion. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) told him, "I am pleased with whoever is happy about my birth."


Celebrating the birth of the members of the Prophet's (saws) household and the righteous:

The same holds true for the commemoration of the birth of the members of the Prophet's household and the righteous friends of God. This is a matter which is recommended in Islamic law because it encourages one to follow their example. God Almighty says:
- "Mention too, in the Quran, the story of Abraham" (Quran 19: 41).

- "Mention too, in the Quran, the story of Moses” (Quran 19: 51).

This is not exclusive to the prophets but also includes the righteous since God says: "Mention in the Quran the story of Mariam" (Quran 19: 16).

It has been established by the accomplished scholars that Mariam (peace be upon her) is a friend of God and not a prophetess.

"Remind them of the Days of God" (Quran 14: 5)

Among the 'days of God' are the days of birth and victory. For this reason, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to fast every Monday in gratitude to God Almighty for the blessings of his birth and to celebrate the day of his birth as previously mentioned in the report of Abu Kutada in Sahih Muslim. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also used to fast and command others to fast on the day of 'Ashura` in gratitude to God Almighty and to rejoice and celebrate the salvation of prophet Musa (peace be upon him). God Almighty has honored the days of the births [of the prophets] through them. It is mentioned in the Quran, "Peace was on him the day he was born" (Quran 19: 15).

God Almighty [also] said through Jesus (peace be upon him and blessings upon the prophets), "Peace was on me the day I was born." (Quran 19: 33).

This is because on the day of the birth of a prophet, we were blessed with the prophet's coming into existence which is the cause for every blessing that has come upon man from that day on. Thus, commemorating that day and being reminded of it is a means for demonstrating our gratitude for the blessings of God upon mankind. There is no objection to specifying certain days to commemorate the births of the righteous friends of God. The legitimacy of these occasions must not be rejected due to the unlawful acts which occur during some of these occasions. Rather, these events must be held while renouncing anything unlawful that may occur during their celebration. Perpetrators of unlawful matters must be warned that these prohibitions violate the basic goal for which these noble events are held.

And God Almighty knows best.

Source:https://www.dar-alifta.org/en/fatwa/details/6655/celebrating-prophet-muhammad%E2%80%99s-birth

Permissibility of celebrating the Mawlid: Briritish Fatwa Council -Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Munir Al-Azhari

Question:

Is it permissible to celebrate the Mawlid?

Answer:

To express joy and happiness during the mawlid is an expression of love and honour towards our Beloved Prophet ﷺ. There is no doubt that showing love towards the Prophet ﷺ and happiness for his mawlid is permissible. Expressing joy and happiness at this time is a means of increasing one’s love for the Prophet ﷺ and loving the Prophet ﷺ is an essential part of our iman (faith).

Imam Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali mentions, “Loving the Prophet ﷺ is from the foundations of Iman. Allah ﷻ has joined the love of the Prophet ﷺ with His ﷻ own. Placing the love of anything else, be it your parents, children, spouse etc above the love of Allah ﷻ and His Messenger ﷺ is calling for the wrath of Allah ﷻ.

The purpose of celebrating the Mawlid:

Gatherings of Mawlid allow people to get together and learn about the Beloved Prophet ﷺ. People will learn about the sirah and shamail of the Prophet ﷺ, they will express their joy in the form of qasa’id and na’at, and in whole reaffirm their love and connection with the Messenger ﷺ.

Showing happiness and joy during the mawlid of the Prophet ﷺ is acting upon the Qur’an and Sunnah and the great ulema have all agreed on this. Allah ﷻ has mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, “… and remind them of the days of Allah. (Surah Ibrahim: 5)” The days of Allah ﷻ include those days in which Allah ﷻ sent his help towards the Prophets (Peace be upon them all) in their times of need. They also include the days in which the Prophets were born. The day of the birth of our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is without doubt the greatest of all these days. The days in which Prophets are born have been given great honour by Allah ﷻ and have been described as days of peace. It is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, “Peace be upon him the day he was born. (Surah Maryam: 15)”

The birth of a Prophet is the event which leads the way for the countless blessings a Prophet will show to his ummah throughout his life and beyond. The ummah of our Prophet ﷺ will continue till the day of judgement and we are continuously benefiting from the Prophet ﷺ and will continue to do so in the hereafter. Allah ﷻ has mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, “Say: It’s Allah’s grace and kindness. So celebrate… (Surah Yunus: 58)” The Prophet ﷺ is the greatest blessing for all mankind. Sayyiduna Ibn Abbas mentions, “the grace of Allah refers to knowledge, and the kindness of Allah refers to our Master Muhammad ﷺ.” Allah ﷻ has stated, “We sent you, Muhammad, as Kindness for all communities. (Surah Al-Anbiya: 107)”

Abu Qatada Ansari narrates that the Prophet ﷺ was asked about fasting on Mondays. The Prophet ﷺ said, “This was the day on which I was born. (Sahih Muslim)” The Prophet ﷺ fasting on the day of his birth is a clear evidence for marking and honouring the mawlid.

Sayyiduna Ibn Abbas narrates that when the Prophet ﷺ arrived in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, he saw that the Jews would keep a fast on the ‘ashura. The Prophet ﷺ asked them, “Why do you keep a fast on this day?” They replied that this is a great day for us, Allah ﷻ saved Prophet Musa and his nation by drowning the Pharaoh and his followers. The Prophet ﷺ replied, “We have a greater right over Prophet Musa than you.” The Prophet ﷺ fasted on that day and ordered others to do so. In a similar narration, Sayyiduna Abu Hurayra narrates that the Prophet ﷺ passed by some Jews who were fasting on the day of ‘ashura. The Prophet ﷺ asked, “Why are you fasting?” The Jews replied, “This is the day that Allah ﷻ saved Prophet Musa and his nation from destruction by drowning the Pharaoh and his followers. This is also the day in which the ark of Prophet Nuh stopped upon Mount Judiy. Both Prophets kept a fast on this day to thank Allah ﷻ. The Prophet ﷺ replied, I have a greater right over Prophet Musa.” The Prophet ﷺ commanded the companions to fast. (Musnad Ahmad).

When it is permissible to mark the day in which Prophet Nuh landed to safety and when Prophet Musa was saved from the tyranny of the Pharaoh, then marking the day on which the Prophet ﷺ has greater significance and honour.

Sayyiduna Burayda Aslami narrates that the Prophet ﷺ had returned from a battle and a woman came to visit the Messenger ﷺ. She said, “O Messenger of Allah, I took an oath that if you were to return safely, then I will play this duff in your presence. The Prophet ﷺ replied, “If you have taken an oath then play it, otherwise do not.” (Musannaf Abi Shaybah) The Prophet ﷺ allowed the beating of the duff to celebrate his safe return from battle, therefore to show happiness and celebrate the birth of the Prophet ﷺ is also permissible.

The agreement of the Scholars:

Imam Abu Shama Al-Maqdasi states, “the ‘ulema agree that a bid’ah hasana is permissible and mustahab. Whoever does such an action with a good intention, he will be rewarded. In our times, an example of a bid’ah hasana can be seen in the city of Erbil. During the mawlid, sadaqa is given and people spend time in voluntary worship. The city is beautified and there is atmosphere of great joy. These actions are of great benefit to the poor and destitute and the love of the Prophet ﷺ is increased in the hearts of all. People learn about the life and the great rank of the Messenger ﷺ and express their thanks and praise to Allah ﷻ for blessing them with the Prophet ﷺ as a mercy to all.”

Imam Sakhawi mentions, “In all the cities and states of the Muslims, there are gatherings of Mawlid throughout the month of Rabi’ ul Awwal. Families hold great feasts, there is a great show of joy and happiness and charity is distributed amongst the needy. Gatherings are held where the events around the blessed birth of the Prophet ﷺ are read. This is a means of great blessings and something which I have experienced.” Similar narrations have been mentioned by Imam Qastalani in Al-Mawahib Al-Laduniya and ‘Allama Diyar Bakri in Tarikh al-Khamis Fi Ahwal Anfus Al-Nafis.

Hafiz Nasir Al-Din Al-Dimashqi narrates, “Thuwayba was freed on the day the Prophet ﷺ was born. It has been mentioned that when Sayyida Aminah gave birth to the Prophet ﷺ, Thuwayba went to her Master, Abu Lahab, and told him of the birth of his nephew, Muhammad ibn Abdullah. In a show of great happiness, Abu Lahab straight away freed Thuwayba. In another narration its states that Thuwayba went to Abu Lahab and said, “Have you heard that Aminah has given birth to a boy?” Abu Lahab replied, “You are free!”

Every Monday, there is relief in the punishment Abu Lahab receives due to the happiness he expressed upon the birth of the Prophet ﷺ and freed a slave in honour of this. Sayyiduna ‘Urwa ibn Zabir mentions, when Abu Lahab died, a member of his family saw him in a dream in very bad state. They asked what had happened to him. Abu Lahab replied, “Nothing has helped me since dying except for freeing Thuwayba, due to which I am given something to drink from here, pointing in between his thumb and index finger. This dream was seen by his brother, Sayyiduna ‘Abbas a year after he had died. Quoting Imam Suyuti’s narration, Imam Dimashqi states, “This statement is correct that every Monday, there is a relief in the punishment given to Abu Lahab due to his freeing of Thuwayba upon the birth of the Prophet ﷺ. When a disbeliever, who has been cursed in the Qur’an, is given relief from his punishment every Monday due to expressing joy upon the birth of the Prophet ﷺ. Then imagine how much reward that person will receive who spent his entire life celebrating the birth of the Prophet ﷺ and passed away upon tawhid.

Accounts and narrations from different scholars from the early centuries clearly show that the mawlid was celebrated throughout the Muslim world and ha continued to this day. People spend the night of the mawlid busy in worship and remembrance of Allah ﷻ. People try their best to engage themselves in good deeds. To mention a few, they arrange food for family and friends, pray and keep a voluntary fast, recite the holy Qur’an and different adhkar and read qas’aid in praise of the Prophet ﷺ.

Many classical scholars have mentioned such accounts in their writings. These include ‘ulema such as Hafiz Ibn Jawzi, Ibn Dihya, Ibn Kathir, Ibn Hajar and Imam Suyuti.

Many of the early and latter scholars have discussed the permissibility of celebrating the mawlid. Great scholars of tafsir, hadith and fiqh have written books on this subject. Examples include Hafiz Ibn Dihya’s ‘Al-Tanwir fi Mawlid Al-Bashir Al-Nazir’, Abu Abbas Al-‘Azafi’s ‘Al-Durr al-Munazzam fi al-Mawlid al-Nabi al-Mu’azzam, Imam ‘Alai’s ‘Al-Durrah Al-Saniyya fi Mawlid Khayr al-Bariyya, Hafiz ‘Iraqi’s ‘Al-Mawrid al-Hani fi al-Mawlid al-Nabi, Hafiz ibn Nasir al-Din al-Dimashqi’s ‘Mawrid al-Saadi fi Mawlid al-Haadi’, Hafiz Al-Naji’s ‘Kanz al-Raghibin al-‘Ufaat fi al-Ramz ila al-Mawlid al-Muhammadi wa al-Wafat, and Imam Suyuti’s ‘Husn al-Maqsid fi ‘Aml al-Mawlid.

Imam Salihi narrates from Imam Zarhazni that he saw the Prophet ﷺ in a dream. He mentioned that some people refuse to celebrate the mawlid. The Prophet ﷺ replied, “Whoever is happy with us, we are happy with them.”

Celebrating the mawlid is an expression of love towards the Prophet ﷺ. It is mustahab and has clear evidences from the Qur’an and Sunnah. It is from the practices of the pious predecessors and the scholars agree that performing virtuous acts during the mawlid is a means to goodness.

And Allah ﷻ knows the best

This Fatwa is written by Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Munir Al-Azhari

Dr Hafiz Mufti Muhammad Munir memorised the Quran at an early age after which he completed his traditional Darse Nizami studies at the renowned seminary Darul Uloom Muhammadiya Ghausia (Bhera Sharif). He studied at Al-Azhar University and completed his PhD in Cairo. He is a Member of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide, Egypt as well as an official representative of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Councils Worldwide in the United Kingdom.
Dr Hafiz Munir, Head Mufti at the British Fatwa Council and Senior Imam of Masjid Ibrahim in Wollaton at Karimia Institute.With a PhD from Al-Azhar University and extensive experience, Dr Munir exemplifies dedication to Islamic scholarship. His work promotes interfaith harmony, addresses extremism, and inspires global communities.

Source:https://www.britishfatwacouncil.org/

Expressing Delight in the Birth of the Light (Izhar al-Surur li Mawlid al-Nur) By Muhammad bin Yahya al-Ninowy , Abdul Aziz Suraqah (translator) Al-Madina Institute

About The Book

''On Assembling to Celebrate and Rejoice over the Birth of the Greatest Messenger, may Allah Bless him and Grant him peace, with a Discussion of It's Legal Proofs and the Arguments of Those who Forbid It.''

This new work contains a combination of ahadith and Ayahs of the Qur'an in both English and Arabic.

Love for Allah and His Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, is one of the central most acts of worship that spring from the heart. It assumes an immensely high rank in the religion. It is the sustenance of the hearts, the succor of the spirits, the coolness of the eyes, the delight of the souls, the light of the intellects, and the fortification of the inward.

Love for Allah and His Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, is life, and those are deprived of it are counted among the dead; it is light, and those who are bereft of it drift aimlessly in the oceans of darkness; it is healing, and those who lack it suffer untold maladies; and it is delight, and those who fail to acquire it live lives of stress, pain, disquietude and agitation.

To further deepen our love and connection with the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, many hadith masters and scholars considered it worthwhile to take every opportunity - after fulfilling one's obligations and the Sunna - to make mention of Allah and His Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. This includes the recommended practice of gathering to celebrate the birth of the Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

Such celebration ''entails gathering with people, reading a portion of the Qur'an, citing the narrations about the precursors to the Prophet's mission and the wondrous signs that took place during his birth, and then eating a bit of food and leaving'' - nothing more, and without this manner of gathering being considered legally required in the shari'ah.

https://www.meccabooks.com/

PDF: Expressing Delight in the Birth of the Light  صلى الله عليه وسلم preceded by a treatise of al-Imām al-Suyūṭī entitled, The Excellent Intension of Celebrating the Mawlid 

Foreword by Shaykh al-Muḥaddith ‘Abd Allāh al-Talīdī

"I have read this work of the erudite and eminent master and Sharifan ḥadīth scholar, Sayyid Muḥammad b. Yaḥyā al-Ninowy, entitled Expressing Delight in the Birth of the Light, in which he discusses the birth of the Prophet ﷺ and its celebration. This work is brimming with knowledge and is unique in its genre. The author has excelled and conveyed great benefit in this work. Despite the plethora of works dedicated to this topic, I have never seen any of them rival or come close to matching this work in its scholarly verification and compilation"

https://zawiya.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Expressing-Delight-in-the-Birth-of-Light.pdf

Madina Institute Canada Facebook Video:Expressing Delight in the Birth of the Light  صلى الله عليه وسلم

1. Shaykh Muhammad Safar al-Madani: Virtues of al-Madina al-Munarrawah

2. Shaykh Muhammad bin Yahya al-Ninowy:Expressing Delight in the Birth of the Light  صلى الله عليه وسلم

https://www.facebook.com/MadinaCanada/videos/1783382428931799/

Al-Qari Shaykh Muhammad Safar al-Madani Biography:

He is a world-renowned Qari who has taught the Holy Quran and the art of Tajwid to students in Saudi Arabia and Sudan. He has served as Imam at the Masjid Quba of Madina al-Munawwara Tarawih prayers in several mosques throughout KSA, Sudan, South Africa and Atlanta, with the Madina Institute. He is fluent in Arabic, English and Farsi. In addition to his tutelage in the Quran, he is also an accomplished executive in the field of Marketing & Business, and is seeking Masters degrees in International Relations and an MBA in Sudan. He is our newest member of the Madina Institute faculty teaching Arabic, Tajwid and serving as the Head of the Madina Institute Hifz School.

https://www.madinainstitute.com/us-atl/staff/al-qari-shaykh-muhammad-safar-al-madani/

Shaykh Dr. Muhammad bin Yahya al-Ninowy Biography:

 He is the Founder and Director of Madina Institute, an Islamic seminary in Atlanta,
Georgia, with campuses in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Norway, Sudan, and Malaysia. Dr. Muhammad bin Yahya al-Ninowy is considered to be a Muhaddith; a scholar of Hadith sciences. He has authored books in Usul, Creed, Hadith, and Sufi sciences. He has been a pioneer working on grass root levels to bring back Unconditional compassion and love as the central themes of religion and has been the forerunner promoting non-violence among all people and religions worldwide. Dr. Muhammad bin Yahya al-Ninowy also holds a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from the University of Illinois, and a doctor of medicine degree.

https://madinainstitute.com/our-team/shaykh-muhammad-bin-yahya-al-ninowy

Fruits of a Leadership Based on Love and Mercy The Character of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) By Imam Didmar Faja September 5, 2025

Introduction

Human history has known many leaders who ruled through force, power, or wealth. But it has rarely happened that a leader built his foundation on love and mercy, winning the hearts of people not through violence, but through gentleness, sacrifice, and personal example. This extraordinary leader is the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (peace be upon him).
He did not merely build a state or a society, but he built hearts, shaped characters, and inspired generations to walk toward peace and goodness. His love for people, for his birthplace, for the city to which he emigrated, as well as his mercy even toward opponents, are the cornerstones of his leadership.
This article summarizes some of these dimensions of his character, showing us how love and mercy are the most beautiful fruits of prophetic leadership.

Loving People

Love for people and the desire that they be guided was an inseparable part of the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) personality. Even when facing hostility and violence, he prayed:
اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِقَوْمِي فَإِنَّهُمْ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

“O Allah, forgive my people, for they do not know.” (Narrated by al-Bukhari in al-Adab al- Mufrad and Muslim)

When the Prophet (peace be upon him) entered Madinah, the girls of the Banu Najjar tribe welcomed him with songs and drums, saying: “We are the daughters of Banu Najjar, how wonderful a neighbor Muhammad is!”

The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked: “Do you love me?” They replied: “Yes.” He then said:
الَُّله يَعْلَمُ أَنِّي أُحِبُّكُنَّ

“Allah knows that I love you.” (Musnad Ibn Majah)

This love did not remain only in words but was realized in actions. From the very first days of his stay in Madinah, the Prophet (peace be upon him) established brotherhood between the emigrants (muhajirun) and the helpers (ansar), and reconciled tribes that had been in conflict for years.

The people of Madinah showed extraordinary love for the emigrants, sharing their wealth and homes, even preferring them over themselves. This sacrifice and love is described in the Qur’an:
وَالَّذِينَ تَبَوَّءُوا الدَّارَ وَالِْإيمَانَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ يُحِبُّونَ مَنْ هَاجَرَ إِلَيْهِمْ وَلَا يَجِدُونَ فِي صُدُورِهِمْ حَاجَةً مِمَّا أُوتُوا وَيُؤْثِرُونَ عَلَٰى أَنفُسِهِمْ وَلَوْ كَانَ بِهِمْ خَصَاصَةٌ

“But those who had settled in the city and had accepted the faith before them love those who emigrated to them, and find no jealousy in their hearts for what they were given, but give them preference over themselves, even though they too are in need.” (Surah al-Hashr, 59:9)
Special Love for the Birthplace

A Muslim naturally has love for his birthplace. It is only normal for a person to have a special attachment to the land where he was raised, for there lie the first memories and feelings that become deeply rooted in his soul. We see this in the words of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), who, addressing Makkah, said:
وَالَِّله إِنَّكِ لَخَيْرُ أَرْضِ الَِّله وَأَحَبُّ أَرْضِ الَِّله إِلَيَّ، وَلَوْلَا أَنِّي أُخْرِجْتُ مِنْكِ مَا خَرَجْتُ

“By Allah, you are the best of Allah’s lands and the most beloved land to me. Had your people not expelled me, I would never have left you.” (Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi)

Here it is understood that Makkah was not only his birthplace but also the holiest place due to the presence of the Blessed Ka‘bah.

Loving the Land Where One Lives and Finds New Opportunities

Often people migrate in search of new opportunities. Even though the new land cannot replace the birthplace, the Muslim must uphold Islamic values both in his homeland and in the land where he settles. He should contribute to the betterment of the new society, as after a certain time he becomes part of it.

When the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) was forced to emigrate to Madinah, he prayed:
اللَّهُمَّ حَبِّبْ إِلَيْنَا الَْمدِينَةَ كَحُبِّنَا مَكَّةَ أَوْ أَشَدَّ

“O Allah, make us love Madinah as we love Makkah, or even more.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Madinah, which was previously called Yathrib – a place known for sicknesses and for internal conflicts between the Aws and Khazraj tribes – was transformed into a prosperous city with the arrival of the Prophet (peace be upon him). He established peace among the tribes and conveyed to its inhabitants the universal values of Islam. For this reason, he called the city Madinah (The City) or Taybah (The Good), giving it a new identity based on love and purity.
Mercy Toward Opponents

His mercy became clearer than ever on the day of the conquest of Makkah. He entered with an army that could not be resisted, but instead of seeking revenge, he said:

“What do you think I will do with you?” They replied:

“You are a noble brother and the son of a noble brother.”

Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) declared the noteworthy words:
اذْهَبُوا فَأَنْتُمُ الطُّلَقَاءُ

“Go, for you are free.” (Ibn Hisham in his Sirah; al-Tabari in his Tarikh)

This was the great moment of forgiveness, when yesterday’s enemies were transformed into forgiven brothers.

Conclusion

From the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we learn that his leadership was built on love and mercy. He loved his birthplace, he loved the land where he lived after migration, he loved people regardless of their origin, and he showed mercy even to his opponents.

This love and mercy were not merely feelings, but they became a social reality: peace, justice, brotherhood, and harmony. And this is the greatest fruit of his leadership: a city illuminated with the light of spirit and the universal values of Islam, which continues to inspire the world to this day.

About Mufti Didmar Faja

Shaykh Didmar Faja is currently the Imām of the United Islamic Center of Arizona (UICA) in Glendale, Arizona. He is the founder and director of the Greenway Academy, an Islamic school co-located with UICA, and founder and director of two Islamic centers in Mexico, La Comunidad Musalmana de Sonora (in the State of Sonora) and La Comunidad Musulmana de Durango (in the State of Durango). He is a religious and spiritual advisor for Naqshbandiyya Foundation for Islamic Education (NFIE) where he delivers a monthly address on topics relating to Islamic spirituality and an instructor at Madina Institute USA in Atlanta, GA where he teaches Al-Arba’­īn of Imam Al-Nawawi and usūl al-fiqh (principles of Islamic jurisprudence) according to the Hanafī school of thought.


Shaykh Didmar is frequently invited to lecture at events and conferences held in the United States and abroad and he is an active participant in, and organizer of, multi-faith activities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The focus of his work is teaching traditional Islam in accordance with the four schools of ahl al-sunnah wa jama’ah, with emphasis on the Hanafī school. He particularly enjoys training students in the art of Qur’anic recitation and is the founder of Arizona’s annual Qur’an Competition.

Shaykh Didmar completed his primary Islamic education in the city of his birth, Shkodër, Albania, while attending the Haxhi Sheh Shamia. He completed his Islamic High school (Imam Hatip) in Istanbul, Turkey. After moving to the US in 1999, he completed his post-secondary education and earned a Bachelor’s in Islamic Studies. Later, he completed his Masters of Divinity (MDiv) in Islamic Chaplaincy from Bayan Graduate. His classical studies have focused on ma’qūl wa manqūl (Islamic speculative and traditional knowledge). He received ijāzāt in fatwā (authorization to issue Islamic non-binding legal opinions) and other Islamic disciplines from the Mufti and the Imam of Abū Hanīfa Mosque of Baghdad, Shaykh Watheq Alobaidi, as well as other scholars. Throughout his life, he has been blessed to study under well-qualified and righteous scholars of various backgrounds, including Albanians, Kurds, Turks and Arabs. Currently, Shaykh Didmar also serves as the head of the Imams Council of Arizona..

He is the author of Shprehi Dhuntitë e Zotit Tënd! (Express the Gifts of You Your Lord!) (2012), an edited anthology of Albanian-language sermons delivered on various Islamic topics, and Shpjegimi i Dyzet e Dy Thënieve Profetike (Commentary on the Forty-Two Prophetic Statements) (2014), an Albanian-language translation and commentary of Al-Arba’­īn of Imam Al-Nawawi. He has published articles on various Islamic topics in several magazines and newspapers in the United States and Albania (in both English and Albanian).

Shaykh Didmar previously served as the Imām of the Albanian American Islamic Center of Arizona – Greenway Masjid (2004 – 2014) and taught Qur’an and Islamic Studies at the Arizona Cultural Academy (2002 – 2009), a full-time Islamic school in Phoenix, Arizona. He is a member of the Arizona Police Reports. He is fluent in Albanian, English, Arabic and Turkish.                                             Source: https://uislamicca.com/home/imam/

A Day With a Japanese Imam | Ahmad Maeno (Abu Hakeem): Islamicity -October 5, 2021

 YouTube:

https://www.islamicity.org/79246/a-day-with-japanese-imam-ahmad-maeno/

Sheikh Ahmad Maeno (Abu Hakeem) is a Japanese Muslim scholar, born in 1975, graduated from Osaka University of Foreign Studies. He embraced Islam at the age of 18, went to Syria, studied Islamic Knowledge, and graduated from the Sharee'ah department of Fath Islamic Institute in Damascus. He gives regular lectures and lessons to Muslims in the Masjids and Islamic schools in Japan. A very active brother in Da'wa works in Japan, may Allaah reward him and give him strength and blessing for his works for Islam and Muslims in Japan, Aameen! via Islam in Japan

Annual Mawlid- Second Gathering -1447 - Daar Ibn Abbas 

Sep 4, 2025
Join us with your family for this blessed event in the month of Rabii’ Al Awwal with two special international guests: Shaykh Musab Penfound from England, and Shaykh Ahmad Maeno from Japan. Experience captivating nasheed in praise of the Prophet ﷺ, hear inspiring talks from respected scholars, and deepen your connection. Imam Ahmad Maeno recites Qasidas in Arabic & Japanese.

YouTube Video:https://www.youtube.com/live/iKog8XJVujc?si=4z8a5Wtc-Tsg0NkF

Friday Khutbah- Imam Ahmad Maeno, Japan - Daar Ibn Abbas
Sep 4, 2025
Listen to the Friday Khutbah from the Daar Ibn Abbas (Condell Park) masjid, delivered by our special international guest: Imam Ahmad Maeno

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUcFr3ybj7M