Introduction to Islamic Creed

by Imam Ibrahim al-Bajuri

As a response to a request, Imam al-Bajuri outlines the core beliefs of the orthodox Sunni doctrine (aqidah) that must be known by every Muslim. Designed to be studied with a teacher or read on one's own, this text will equip the student with sufficient knowledge of the essentials of Muslim theology to be able to distinguish truth from falsehood, orthodox from heterodox, Ahl al-Sunna wa al-Jama'a or Sunni Islam from other than it. It is hoped that by including the facing, vocalized Arabic script that 1) students of Sacred Knowledge will be aided in learning the language of the Qur’an, the Prophet (saws), and the ulama, 2) it will serve as a teaching aid for the ulama when teaching this text to reference the original work and 3) to preserve the actual words of Imam al-Bajuri.

Genres: Islam, Nonfiction, Theology, Religion

100 pages, Paperback

Published January 7, 2020

Reviews

[Shahrian Shihab · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5

[Aiysha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent introduction to Islamic theology that should be required reading for every Muslim.

[адэм · Rating 5 out of 5]

Briefly summarizes the important points necessary for every Muslim to learn as articulated according to the school of Imam al-Ashari رحمة الله. I thought the translator did a great job introducing both the subject of aqeedah through the 10 principles as well as describing its relevance in modern times. Clarifying the essential nature for every Muslim to learn their creed and to have a level of certainty is an important point that cannot be overlooked, especially with the misunderstanding of religion in general (and Islam by extension) requiring its followers to blindly submit to its doctrine. This is not true of the Islamic tradition as conveyed in both its source texts and in scholarly works such as Imam al-Bajuri's treatise.

The summary lists at the end with the different attributes and names was also a really nice touch.

[Raiyaan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice concise introductory work covering basic Islamic (Ashari) theology and exposing a student with rudimentary knowledge of Aqeedah to terms and definitions.
An excellent work for instructional purposes.

[Ismail Khan · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Introduction to Islamic Creed" by Imam Ibrahim al-Bajuri is a significant work in the field of Islamic theology, specifically outlining the core beliefs of Sunni doctrine (aqidah). This book is considered an essential read for both youth and adults who are interested in understanding the basics of Muslim theology. It is designed to be accessible for self-study but can also be used as a resource in a structured educational setting with a qualified teacher.

The book serves several key purposes:

1. Educational Foundation: It provides a fundamental step towards formally studying Islamic belief (aqidah).
2. Comprehensive Overview: Imam al-Bajuri outlines the essential beliefs that every Muslim should know, helping readers distinguish between truth and falsehood, and orthodox and heterodox teachings within Islam.
3. Learning Aid: The inclusion of vocalized Arabic script alongside the English translation aids students in learning the language of the Qur’an, the Prophet Muhammad, and Islamic scholars.
4. Preservation of Texts: The book helps in preserving the original words of Imam al-Bajuri, which is important for maintaining the authenticity of the teachings.

It is highly regarded for its clarity and concise explanation of complex theological concepts, making it an excellent resource for anyone seeking to start in their understanding of Islamic beliefs or in refreshing themselves on main principles.

[Aqeelah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that I can actually understand this

[Kaleemah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introduction to the science of Fard Ayn (obligatory knowledge.

[Raees Zaman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing introduction to the Orthodox Islamic creedal schools. Not only does it cover Allah's attributes and what is affirmed and negated for Him, but it also covers the Holy Prophets (peace be upon them) and what is affirmed and negated for them. It goes over both the Asha'irah and the Maturidiyya's positions on the attributes when a difference comes up between them, covering it so that the reader is aware. Thus this is a good book for followers of both schools, at least, those who are trying to understand the basics. I would recommend this for those beginning to study Islamic creed who are unaware of the foundations of Ilm al Kalam, that is, the Theology of Ahlul Sunnah.