"Tazkiyah," self-development, lies at the core of Islamic life. Success in this life and the next depends very much on it. There are many works in Islamic literature on the subject of self-development, written from a variety of angles. This anthology has been compiled to meet the need for self-development from an authentic Islamic perspective.
Just got done with this amazing book. Loved it to bits. ☄
The book is divided in five chapters. Each chapter is an article by different scholar. The main aim behind the book is to throw some light on the concept of self development in islam. Self development is regarded as an active process in this book. ☄
In the first chapter, islamic concept of self development is discussed with respect to the collective lìfe and individual life. Moreover the main chracteristics of an individual who is on the mission of self development and which kind of obstacles they face is also discussed. ☄
In chapter 2, role of faith in life as well as true meaning of self development is discussed in light of quranic verses. Ways to attain self development in islam and islamic moral system are also discussed. ☄ In chapter 3, one can find basic requisites and methodology to attain tazkiyah alongside obstacles and pitfalls in the light of quranic wisdom. Some modern management techniques for self development are also discussed. ☄ In chapter 4, author started with explaining importance of self development and then leading to the aspects of ease surrounding self development journey and the importance of action and intention is also discussed. ☄
In chapter 5, the relation of man with Allah has been discussed in detail on the basis of the pillars of gratitude, love etc, ways of gaining gnosis as well as important concepts of modesty, fear of Allah, importance of practicing moderation are also discussed. ☄ OverAll it was an amazing read, some concepts were overlapping but that is natural. Take away lesson was:
1- Tazkiyah/ self development is an active process.
2- Quran and hadith are complete code of conduct for this process. 3- One's intention should be pure for seeking Allah's pleasure.
4- Commitment and constant striving are very important.
5- One must practice moderation in all actions and sharing good with others is also good.
An amazing read. ☄☄☄☄/5 * Would recommend it to everyone. Got it from @dawahbooks
The book itself is divided by different scholars for each chapter which gives a nice wide array of different vines of the same tree of Tazkiyah - purification of the self.
My one qualm with the book is that at times, as it is a translated work, I felt some things translated did not flow as easily in English as it would have been in the native language it was written in. That said, this book does a good job of delving into the topic of purification of the self, gives advice & tips on your own journey of Tazkiyah, and overall reminds us of our greatest honor: being chosen as Allah’s vicegerent.
With that honor comes the responsibility of asking ourselves: How will we conduct ourselves in the light of being His vicegerent on Earth? Will X action please my Lord?