Title: Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms, and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the HeartAuthor: Hamza Yusuf
Paperback: 220 pages
Publisher: Starlatch Press, US (Jun 2004)
Language: English
Maybe because I am most in need of it, but this is one of the best books I have read and will ever read, maa sha Allah.
Imam Abu Hanifa said, as quoted in this book, "If the kings knew the pleasure we are in [worshipping God and gaining knowledge of His religion], they would send their armies with swords to take it away from us."
Such is true of this book. A knowledge more valuable/pleasurable than gold or oil or any such commodity.
The book is excellently structured/sectioned to allow for broken up periodic reading and digestion in parts. Some of the "diseases" discussed include miserliness, hatred, love of the world, envy, fear of poverty, displeasure with the divine degree, negative thoughts, vanity, anger, boasting and arrogance.
Get it if you want to better yourself as a person. A must for all, irrespective of religious belief.
4 comments:
My book is black with a waterfall, similar title. If it is the same book then I second that. One in a bookcase, in fact it makes the bookcase. I have a love-hate relationship with the book. I like to read it when I get too arrogant because it brings me crashing down to earth but not when I'm down because every description feels like its describing my many personal faults. It's a thought provoking book, makes you doubt your intention at every action. Reminds me of the verse that talks of people who go through this world thinking they have been guided when they are being led astray. Not a good thought.
Anonymous, the book you are referring to is 'The Purification of the Soul' (Al Firdous Publications). Also a good book. In fact, one of the first Islamic books I read just a few years ago. It left its mark. I think I may get it and read it again, to jog some memories.
Anonymous, get this book ('Purification of the Heart') as well. It is available from amazon for £10.
This Soul, I haven't yet read anything by Imam al-Haddad (not that I can recall anyway). I have added the book you recommended to my wish list and will get round to it soon insha-Allah. Was it you who also recommended 'Lives of Man'? Which would be a better first read?
The books have arrived :). Please keep recommending things to read/watch/listen to. I appreciate the direction, jazak Allah kul khair.
Will do insha-Allah and expect likewise :)
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