The life and times of Uthmân ibn Affân, as detailed in this book by Dr. Ali M. Sallâbi, truly illustrate the characteristics of exemplary leaders along with the commendable qualities of those under them. This account of how Uthmân ibn Affân, the third Rightly-Guided Caliph, expanded the Islamic state, compiled the Qur’an into a single edition, and, finally, dealt with the turmoil that engulfed the Ummah, makes for a very enlightening read.
The author has also given us insight into the life of Dhun-Noorayn (Uthmân, the ‘Possessor of the Two Lights’) before he became the caliph. Readers discover his attachment to the Prophet (sa), his relationship with the Qur’an and his generous financial contributions towards the founding of the Islamic state. All in all, this book will prove to be a valuable resource on Islamic history.
Drawn from Ibn Kathīr’s renowned al-Bidāyah wa’n-Nihāyah, Qiṣaṣ al-Anbiyāʾ offers a detailed account of the profound, lesson-filled lives of the Prophets—upon them be everlasting peace and blessings.
This classic work seeks to reconnect Muslims with the narratives of the Qur’an and the noble examples of the Prophets. Ibn Kathīr presents relevant Qur’anic verses, supported by authentic narrations from the Final Prophet ﷺ, while also engaging with reports from earlier scriptures, carefully assessing their reliability. May Allah (swt) adorn us with the noble qualities of His chosen servants and reunite us with them in Firdaws al-Aʿlā. Āmīn.
Description from the publisher:
In this book, the events of the Prophet's life, from the day he (S) was born and even before that day for background information-until the day he (S) died, have been recorded.
Beyond enumerating the events of the Prophet's life, lessons and morals from those events have been drawn to point out the significance of an event and the wisdom behind the Prophet's actions or deeds, the Islamic ruling that is derived from a particular incident, and the impact that a given event should have on our character or choice of deeds is indicated.
Male or female, adult or child, scholar or commoner, businessman or laborer - all Muslims need to study the biography of the Messenger of Allah. In fact, the fulfillment of many of our Islamic duties hinges upon our knowledge of the Prophet's life. For example, every Muslim should love the Prophet (S) yet how can one love him without knowing him. We were not alive when the Prophet (S) was preaching the message of Islam to the Quraish, so the only way we have left to become intimately acquainted with the Prophet (S) and consequently to love him, is to study his sayings and deeds, which give us partial glimpses of his life, or to study his biography, which fits the pieces of his life together, so that we can have an overall view of his ideal character.
And how are we to follow the Prophet (S) if we do not know his sayings and deeds, or - which is more relevant to his biography - the context in which his sayings and deeds occurred. Thus we are all in dire need of acquainting ourselves with the life of the Prophet (S)
Through the study of the Seerah (the Prophet's biography), we are able to appreciate how the Prophet (S) was an ideal husband, ideal father, ideal leader, ideal ruler, ideal educator, ideal judge, and so on. So regardless of our situation and who we are, we benefit from studying the Prophet's life. If one has dedicated at least some part of his life to inviting others to Islam (which makes him a Daa'ee - a word I will henceforward use one who invites others to the teachings of Islam), then the Prophet's biography is for him an indispensable guidebook. Through studying the Prophet's Seerah, the Daa'ee learns about the Prophet's methodology for inviting others to Islam; furthermore, he learns about how the Prophet (S) dealt with those who refused to embrace Islam and how he ;t",' was patient when he was made to suffer at their hands, not to mention the countless other lessons and morals he learns from the Seerah.
If one is an educator - of children at home or school, or of adults at a community level - one learns how the best educator mankind has ever known raised a generation of true Muslims, who went on to develop the most wonderful civilization that mankind has ever known. The early converts to Islam were educated in the world's finest institution of higher learning - the House of Al-Arqam (the house wherein Muslims secretly met in the early days of Islam) - where the Prophet (S) taught them the Qur'an, Islamic beliefs, the manners of Islam, and so on. His students graduated with flying colors, becoming leaders and educators of the following generation of Muslims.
If one is a leader, one learns true qualities of leadership from the Prophet's Seerah, in terms of how the Prophet (S) was just; how he united the Muslims; how he (S) dealt with subversive elements of society, namely the hypocrites, who were headed by 'Abdullah ibn Ubai ibn Salool; and how he (S) constantly strove for the betterment of the Muslim nation.
If one is a scholar, one relies on the Seerah to understand the Qur'an, for the Prophet's actions represent a practical application of the teachings of the Qur'an. Furthermore, the revelation of many Verses was prompted by actual events that took place during the Prophet's lifetime; a scholar can only understand such Verses if he understands the events for which they were revealed. And in fact (as we will In Sha Allah see throughout this book) knowledge of all Islamic sciences - such as 'Aqeedah (beliefs), jurisprudence, and Tafseer - hinges frequently upon knowledge of some aspect of the Prophet's Seerah.
If a Muslim inclines towards Zuhd (to abstain from worldly pleasures for the sake of Allah) he can learn, through the study of the Seerah, the difference between true Zuhd and extremism, for the correct way to live is the balanced life that the Prophet (S) and his Companions led. If a Muslim is afflicted by calamity, he can find consolation in the Seerah, for no one was afflicted with as much hardship as was the Messenger of Allah; beyond consolation, the afflicted person becomes encouraged to follow the example of the Prophet; and patiently await for his reward from Allah . In short, there are valuable lessons to be found in the Seerah for every single Muslim.
Not just the Muslim individual, but also the Muslim nation as a whole needs to benefit from the lessons that are available in the Prophet's Seerah. Nations rise and fall not through coincidence or through a set of arbitrary occurrences, but through universal laws that have been set in place by Allah . At least once in our history, Muslims have succeeded in building a wonderful and stable civilization, and that was during the lifetime of the Prophetand his rightly guided Caliphs; and even if Muslims prospered in later centuries, they never prospered as much as they did in the early golden years of Islam. Now we come back to the universal laws I mentioned above: The Prophet , and his Companions established a stable and prosperous nation not by chance, but by living in harmony with the said universal laws. What this means is that there is a pattern: If we want to now repeat the success that was achieved by the Muslims during the lifetime of the Prophet Oh, we need to be in harmony with the same set of laws, and in doing so, we have an ideal blueprint to follow - the lives of the Prophet (S) and his noble Companions (R).
This book describes, among other things, the principles based upon which 'Umar ibn al-khattab رضی الله عنه governed the Muslims during his caliphate; among those principles were mutual consultation, justice, equality among people, and honouring of freedoms. With the turn of every page, the reader will come to appreciate the fact that Umar رضی الله عنه was exceptional in his faith, distinguished in his knowledge, profoundly wise in his thinking, remarkable in his eloquence, noble in his manners and great in the contributions he made to this nation.
Drawn from Tārīkh al-Khulafā’, this classical work compiles authentic hadith in recounting the lives of the first four Khalifahs of Islam, may Allah be pleased with them. Through these biographies, it showcases the integrity, wisdom, and leadership they exemplified in governance, while also underscoring their vital contributions to the development and preservation of the Sunnah.
It is titled “Khalifahs Who Took the Right Way” rather than “Rightly Guided Khalifahs” to emphasize their active commitment to choosing and upholding the right path.
Why this book deserves a place on your shelf:
• A fluent, accessible translation of Imam as-Suyuti’s renowned work on the early Khalifahs.• Insightful portrayal of some of the finest individuals in the history of Islam—true role models for character and conduct.• An uplifting and inspiring read that deepens admiration and understanding.
Yusuf: The Journey of Faith and Resilience
The Story of Yusuf – The Best of Stories
Allah describes it as “the best of stories” — and indeed, it is a story everyone should know.The Story of Yusuf brings to life the journey of Prophet Yusuf (عليه السلام), revealing how his trials, patience, and faith remain deeply relevant to our lives today.
Step into a world where timeless wisdom meets modern understanding, as this book beautifully retells one of history’s most remarkable stories.
Although it is the best of stories, it is often misunderstood or overlooked in depth. The reason lies in the lack of resources that connect traditional scholarship with contemporary readers.The Story of Yusuf bridges that gap — offering thoughtful reflections and insightful explanations that revive the wonder and wisdom of this extraordinary Qur’anic narrative.
The Early Life of Yusuf
Yusuf, also known as Joseph, was born into a noble family. However, his life took a dramatic turn when his brothers, driven by jealousy, plotted against him. They threw him into a well, intending to rid themselves of him permanently. But this was just the beginning of Yusuf's remarkable journey. Despite the challenges he faced at such a young age, Yusuf remained strong in his faith and hopeful for a better future.
Trials and Triumphs
After being rescued from the well, Yusuf was sold into slavery in Egypt. Yet, he did not falter; instead, he used this time to develop his character and wisdom. His ability to interpret dreams brought him to the attention of Pharaoh. However, he faced further trials, including wrongful imprisonment. Yusuf's resilience during these testing times showcased his unwavering trust in God, proving that hardships can lead to greater purposes.
The Restoration of Yusuf
Eventually, Yusuf's gift of dream interpretation allowed him to predict a looming famine, which saved Egypt from disaster. His story is one of forgiveness when he reconciled with his brothers, showcasing his noble character. Yusuf became a high-ranking official in Egypt, reflecting that true success arises from overcoming adversity. His journey teaches us the importance of faith, patience, and the power of forgiveness.
An abridged English translation of the classical masterpiece Al-Bidayah wa’l-Nihayah (The Beginning and the End) — also known as Tarikh Ibn Kathir (The History of Ibn Kathir) — one of the most comprehensive works on Islamic history.
This collection covers:
The story of creation and the descent of humankind upon the earth
The lives and missions of past Prophets
The blessed life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The biographies of the Rightly Guided Caliphs
Islamic history up to the author’s era (768 AH)
Events before and after the Last Hour
Essentially, this work presents a detailed history of humanity and Islam — from Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) to the time of Imam Ibn Kathir.
Before you is the English translation of Al-Fusūl Fī Sīratir-Rasūl (Chapters from the Life of the Messenger) by the great Imām, Al-Hāfiz Ibn Kathīr (may Allah have mercy upon him). This translation was carried out over several years by the esteemed scholar and translator, Shaykh Abū Talhah Dāwūd Burbank (rahimahullāh), who, along with his wife, passed away in 2011 CE while performing Hajj with brothers from Salafi Publications. May Allah have mercy on them both.
The preparation of this book for publication has taken a number of years, and it is an honour to finally present it to our respected readers. We pray that Allah makes it a source of benefit, and rewards both the original author and the translator for their immense efforts.
The translator has provided extensive endnotes throughout the work. These include clarifications on the authenticity of narrations, definitions of key terms, and valuable insights derived from the Sunnah and scholarly writings. Breadcrumb references within the main text guide readers directly to the corresponding endnotes.
It should be noted that this translation was completed many years ago. Since then, the status of some individuals referenced in the notes may have changed. While they were regarded as being upon the correct creed at that time, some have since deviated from the straight path — may Allah guide us and them. As the great Imām Muhammad Ibn Sīrīn (rahimahullāh) warned: “Indeed, this knowledge is religion, so be careful from whom you take your religion.” With that, we leave the reader to benefit from this tremendous work.
About the Author
Al-Hāfiz Imāduddīn Abū al-Fidā’ Ismā‘īl Ibn Kathīr (701–774H, may Allah have mercy upon him) was born in Mijdal, a village near Busra in the province of Damascus. Orphaned at a young age, he moved to Damascus with his brother in 707H.
By the age of ten, he had memorised the Qur’an along with its various recitations, and he excelled in tafsīr. He later married Zaynab, the daughter of the great scholar Al-Hāfiz Abul-Hajjāj Al-Mizzī, under whom he studied closely. Ibn Kathīr also benefited immensely from Shaykhul-Islām Ibn Taymiyyah, becoming one of his most devoted students and defenders.
He mastered the sciences of tafsīr, hadīth, fiqh, and history, with particular expertise in narrators and hidden defects in chains of transmission. He served as the head of the Sālihiyyah School after the passing of Imām Adh-Dhahabī and briefly as the head of Dār al-Hadīth al-Ashrafiyyah.
Firmly upon the creed of the Salaf, Ibn Kathīr’s works—especially his renowned tafsīr—stand as a lasting testament to his scholarship. He passed away in Damascus on Thursday, 26th Sha‘bān 774H, where he was buried.
About the Translator
Abū Talhah Dāwūd Burbank was born on 20 October 1963 in Coalville, Leicestershire, UK, into a Christian family. At the age of 19, while studying at the University of Leicester, he embraced Islam after reading an English translation of the Qur’an.
In the mid-1980s, he travelled to Saudi Arabia to study at the Islamic University of Madinah. There, he learned Arabic and studied under leading scholars of the Sunnah, including Imams Ibn Bāz, Ibn ‘Uthaymīn, Rabī‘ al-Madkhalī, Hammād al-Ansārī, Muhammad Amān al-Jāmī, and others. He also became a close companion of Shaykh Abū Uwais ‘Abdullah Ahmad (rahimahullāh).
Upon his return to the UK, Abū Talhah dedicated himself to teaching and translating, refuting misguided ideologies, and clarifying the pure methodology of the Salaf. Alongside Shaykh Abū ‘Iyād Amjad Rafiq, he produced translations that provided much-needed clarity to English-speaking Muslims. His works include Explanation of the Creed of Imām al-Barbahārī, The Methodology of the Prophets in Calling to Allah by Shaykh Rabī‘, and Foundations of the Sunnah by Imām Ahmad (co-translated).
He co-founded Salafi Publications in 1997, where he remained a pillar of da‘wah. Known for his humility, sincerity, and precision, he was respected by both scholars and students of knowledge. Scholars such as Shaykh Rabī‘ al-Madkhalī and Shaykh ‘Ubaid al-Jābirī recommended him and acknowledged his reliability in translation and hadīth sciences.
Abū Talhah was known for meticulously following the Sunnah in every aspect of life. On 1 November 2011 (5th Dhul-Hijjah 1432H), he and his wife Umm Talhah passed away in Saudi Arabia en route to perform Hajj. May Allah envelop them in His vast mercy.
Dive into the ocean of knowledge with Al-Hafiz Ibn Katheer’s renowned masterpiece, Life and Times of the Messengers. This monumental work vividly recounts the extraordinary stories of the divine messengers, blending the timeless words of the Qur’an with historical insights.
About Al-Hafiz Ibn Katheer
Al-Hafiz Ibn Katheer was a distinguished scholar and historian whose works remain a cornerstone of Islamic literature. Known for his clarity and depth, he had a unique ability to simplify complex concepts, making them accessible to readers worldwide. His scholarship continues to enlighten and inspire generations.
Key Features
Authentic scholarship: An accessible yet profound narrative by one of the most respected scholars in Islamic history.
Comprehensive coverage: A detailed exploration of the lives and teachings of the Prophets, enriched with historical context.
Qur’anic integration: Verses seamlessly interwoven with the stories for deeper reflection and understanding.
Reader-friendly style: Clear, professional language suitable for all readers, including non-native English speakers.
Kitab Ash-shifa bi tarif huqub al-Mustafa, (Healing by the recognition of the Rights of the Chosen One), of Qadi Iyad is perhaps the most frequently used and most commented upon handbook in which the Prophets life, his qualities and miracles are described in every detail.
This book is highly admired throughout the Muslim world and is quick to acquaint the reader with the true stature of the Prophet saw.
Ash-Shifa gathers together all that is necessary to acquaint the reader with the true stature of the prophet, peace and blessing be upon him, with esteem and respect which is due to him, and with the verdict regarding anyone who dares not fulfill what his stature demands or who attempts to denigrate his supreme status - even by as much as a nail pairing.
This book is an English translation of as-Sirat an-Nabawiyyah; a scholarly and thoroughly researched Arabic work of Shaykh Abul-Hasan Ali Nadwi (May Allahs Mercy be upon him). However the title has been taken from the Urdu translation of the said work.
In this book, the author has been particularly mindful of the current generation's mindset, taste, understanding and sensibilities. Similarly, he has been entirely considerate of the modern method of research and discourse, so that the content, evidences and style prove to be effective. In preparing the book, the author has read old and new literature, in Arabic and other languages; so that the book, in addition to being comprehensive, is also able to dispel any confusion that exists in the modern mind.
As a result, this book has received much acclaim, and within a short space of time it has been included in the syllabus of universities. Now, the English version of this book is in your hands, so that English speakers may also benefit. About the Author Shaykh Abul-Hasan Ali Nadwi was from the Indian Hasani descendents of the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) and a luminary of a famous and renowned scholarly family. Even though he was from the UP district of Rai Bareilly, he spent his life in Lucknow. He was the Nazim (principal) and the chair of the All-India Muslim Personal Law Board.
Along with being a great Islamic thinker, preacher and guide, he was a successful author and he had equal command of both oral and written Urdu and Arabic. He has written several books, the most famous of which is: What has the world lost because of the downfall of the Muslims? His pen exuded empathy for humanity and acted as a representative of Islamic thought.
Through his speech and writing, he presented the authentic Islamic thought and methodology. Alongside his leadership of Nadwa and the Personal Law Board, he was responsible for and a patron of a number of religious and social organisations. His religious and social activism spans a period of more than half a century. Translation by Dr Mohiuddin Ahmad
Abridged Lives of the Companions
An abridged edition of Hayatus Sahabah - Translated by Mufti Afzal Hoosen Elias Hayatus Sahabah is a masterpiece.
A Large Collection of events and incidents involving the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them), meticulously categorized by the common lessons and morals these incidents symbolise.
The author has organised together a vast amount of information to paint a vivid picture of the struggle for Da'wah of the Sahabah, and their training by the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), a picture meant to leave an inedible mark on the reader
Discover the Importance of the Companions
The Abridged Lives of the Companions is a significant work that focuses on the important figures in Islamic history. These companions were not just followers; they were the support system of the Prophet Muhammad. They played critical roles in conveying his teachings and establishing Islam. Because of their dedication, we have rich accounts of their lives and contributions.
Easy to Understand and Access
This hardback edition of the Abridged Lives of the Companions is designed for readers of all ages, especially middle school students. Its accessible language and structure make it easy to read. The book distills essential lessons from the lives of the companions, so readers can grasp not only their historical significance but also their personal qualities and virtues.
Inspiration for Today's Readers
The lives of these companions serve as powerful examples for modern readers. By studying their stories, readers can learn about resilience, bravery, and moral integrity. The Abridged Lives of the Companions encourages individuals to reflect on how these values can be applied in today's world. Therefore, this book is more than just a historical account; it is a source of inspiration for personal growth.
