Dear Beloved Son: 24 Pieces of Valuable Advice for Seekers of Knowledge (Islam)

Dear Beloved Son is an excellent compilation of extremely valuable pieces of advice based not only on theory but on the practical experience and insight of Imam al-Ghazali. Since he presented his disciple with these pieces of advice at a stage in life where he had studied and excelled in all major sciences of Islam ranging from aqidah, fiqh, tasawwuf to philosophy, logic and education, it holds extra significance. In these writings, Imam al-Ghazali (1059-1111 AD) offers advice that are paramount importance. In analysing the human psyche, he is undoubtedly a master. He covers topics such as sincerity, knowledge, action, death, da'wah, hypocrisy, time, Shariah, etc., with such delicacy and coherency that one is able to grasp clearly the multi-dimensional facets of comprehensive Islam. We live in an age of liberal individualism and have been brought up in an environment that teaches us to think only for ourselves. Asking others for advice is considered a sign of weakness and dependency. Little wonder it is that our affairs, be they at a personal level or at a global level, are in a pitiful state. Hence, we are in dire need today of listening to the advice of one who is not only more experienced than us, but one who is also known as the Proof of Islam. This book touches on all aspects of life, from material wealth and the love of this life, to Islamic etiquette and acquiring knowledge. The author illustrates his ideas throughout with relevant quotations from Qur'an and Hadith, as well as poetry and logical examples. He offers a clear analogy which demonstrates the need to cleanse ourselves of bad manners so that we can develop good characteristics. He offers a powerful reminder of the importance of constantly identifying ourselves with the next life. Also included at the back of the book is the Arabic edition.