Civilization of Faith - A Journey Through Islamic History

by Mustafa as-Sibâ‘ee, مصطفى السباعي, Nasiruddin al-Khattab (Translator)

We are living at a time when western civilization is at its peak and the Muslim nations are at their weakest point. They are dazzled by the power of the west with its wealth, scientific discoveries and technological advantages. Those who are unfamiliar with history might be unaware that this has not always been the case. A few hundred years ago, it was just the opposite. The Muslim Ummah was the superpower of the age, and Muslims were leaders in culture, science and technology. The cities of the Muslim world were the centres of learning to which people came from far and wide.

The Muslims, at one time, were the most technologically-advanced civilization on the earth. The uniqueness of their civilization lay in the fact that, although they achieved a great deal in materialistic terms, they remained a compassionate society where the poor and disadvantaged were cared for.

This book is a reminder to Muslims that they have a glorious past; for many centuries, they had the upper hand over their enemies. They became masters of the world when they adhered to Islam; however, when they became preoccupied with worldly gain and the pursuit of luxury, decline set in. Today, if Muslims take their religion seriously, they will once again be supported by Allah, the Exalted, and lead the world in all spheres of life.

Nasiruddin al-Khattab has translated this thought provoking book into English.

Genres: Islam, History, Religion

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

The late Dr. Mustafa as-Sibâ‘ee was an active participant in jihad. He was a member of the resistance movement in Palestine and also played a leading role in the Islamic movement in Syria. He was a lecturer at the University of Damascus, where he taught the seerah (the Prophet’s biography). One of his most well-known and influential works that have been translated into English is The Role of the Sunnah in Islamic Legislation, published by IIPH.

Reviews

[Abu Kamdar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I have ever read about life in the ancient Islamic empire. I recommend this book for everybody, as everybody should know what life is truly like under real Islamic law.

[Irni Farid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flashbacks on the glorious civilization of Islam. Muslims were the most technological-advance in all spheres of life at one time. The chapters on Hospitals, Libraries and Academic Gatherings are most intriguing.
A good read.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

a very easy and insightful read!! it serves as a great reminder to us that at one time, Muslims were in fact the most technologically-advanced civilization on the earth. The uniqueness of the Islamic civilization lay in the fact that, although they achieved a lot in materialistic terms, they also remained a compassionate society where the poor and disadvantaged were cared for.. True Islam set the precendence of kindness and mercy to animals, religious tolerance and equality among all.. a great read and available at all Islamic bookstores..

[Fatihah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly one of the best books Ive read on the strength of Muslim Civilization. Makes you lighthearted for awhile. A MUST READ for all thinking Muslims.

[Muhd Saad · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is so important to know your civilization. we Muslim should be proud of our past.

[Hannah]

Good look at history. Should share with non-muslims

[Hafizuddin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple and easy book to digest

[R · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books!

[albie_of_nonfic · Rating 2 out of 5]

Regardless of its merits, the edition of this book that I read was severely let down by sloppy (or non-existent) editing and careless printing. In numerous places what appear to be the translator's notes to the editor ("This should not be allowed, surely?") were not only not acted upon, but were printed as footnotes - making it look ludicrous. The presence of differing typefaces and fonts on the same page was also distracting, and did not reflect well on the publisher. The language was also somewhat odd in places, but this may be an issue of taking a what was a series of radio talks and converting them to a book.

This was mildly interesting, but its polemic purpose (which the author freely admitted), combined with its strident claims and the relentlessly idealised picture of the past that it presents, makes it somewhat dubious as a history. It does, however, give an overview and serves as a starting-point for more serious study.

[Jemila Mohammed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredable ! All person should read it . The best one.

[Ehab Shawky · Rating 5 out of 5]

An eye-opener for those who know nothing about the Muslims' contributions in the human heritage. It's just a simplified overview, but it surely helps convey part of the truth.

[Safwan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about the Islamic Civilization. Covers hospitals, Libraries etc.