The Islamic definition of Bid’ah: Imaam Ash-Shaafi’i, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “A Bid’ah is anything that has no basis in the Qur’aan, Sunnah or sayings of any of the companions.” Ibn Al-Jawzi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “A Bid’ah is any form of worship that did not exist (at the time of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and his companions) then later it was innovated.” Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “A Bid’ah is any form of worship which has no basis in the Sharee’ah which would warrant its legislation.”
Author: Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
The book begins with a discussion of the sacred nature of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, the boundaries of the Haram (Sanctuary) and its sanctity. Then it discusses the superiority of Makkah and narrates Ahadith to that effect. Then it mentions the names of Makkah and the significance of these names. This book also speaks of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma'il (Ishmael) (peace be upon them) and their connection to Makkah and its sanctity and development.
The Importance of the issue of ijtihad, who has the right to make it, and caution of speaking about the religion without knowledge
Author: Salman Bin Fahad al-Awdah
Publisher: http://www.islamtoday.net - Islam Today Website
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1403
The permissible and prohibited types of waseelah
Author: Naasir Bin Abdulkarim al-Aql
Publisher: Daar Al-Watan
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1297
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
Sahih Muslim includes sayings, doings and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) narrated by his companions. It is considered the third most authentic book in Islam after the Quran and "Sahih al-Bukhari". It covers almost all aspects of life.
Author: Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj ibn Muslim al-Qushairi an-Naisabori
Translators: AbdulHamid Siddiqui
Publisher: http://www.islamspirit.com - Islam Spirit Website